quick-witted

adjective

quick-wit·​ted ˈkwik-ˈwi-təd 

: quick in perception and understanding : mentally alert

quick-wittedly adverb

quick-wittedness noun

Synonyms

• alert
• brainy
• bright
• brilliant
• clever
• exceptional
• fast
• hyperintelligent
• intelligent
• keen
• nimble
• quick
• sharp
• sharp-witted
• smart
• supersmart
• ultrasmart

Choose the Right Synonym for quick-witted

intelligent, clever, alert, quick-witted mean mentally keen or quick.

intelligent stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems.

an intelligent person could assemble it fast

clever implies native ability or aptness and sometimes suggests a lack of more substantial qualities.

clever with words

alert stresses quickness in perceiving and understanding.

alert to new technology

quick-witted implies promptness in finding answers in debate or in devising expedients in moments of danger or challenge.

no match for his quick-witted opponent

Examples of quick-witted in a Sentence

the quick-witted child easily figured out the trick to making the toy work

Recent Examples on the Web

Warm, inviting and quick-witted, Diane Rutherford's life seemed tied to her belief in the value of connection. —Christina Avery, The Arizona Republic, 14 Aug. 2024

The series about a quick-witted outlaw in 18th century England, which was the storied British scribe’s first for a streamer, launched several months back. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 30 July 2024

Her perfect blend of mean, funny, and quick-witted commentary taking down people who act awful online has brought her over eight million followers on TikTok and one million on Instagram. —Moises Mendez Ii, TIME, 30 July 2024

The air around the three is fast-paced, quick-witted, and easy. —Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 22 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

quick-witted

adjective

quick-wit·​ted

ˈkwik-ˈwit-əd

: quick in thinking and understanding : mentally alert

quick-wittedness noun