intellect

noun

in·​tel·​lect ˈin-tə-ˌlekt 

1

a

: the power of knowing as distinguished from the power to feel and to will : the capacity for knowledge

b

: the capacity for rational or intelligent thought especially when highly developed

2

: a person with great intellectual powers

Synonyms

• brain
• brainiac
• genius
• thinker
• whiz
• wiz
• wizard

Examples of intellect in a Sentence

She is a woman of superior intellect.

She has a sharp intellect.

We were required to read a book every week in order to develop our intellects.

music that appeals to the intellect while still satisfying the emotions

Recent Examples on the Web

Touting her tenure as a prosecutor confirms her intellect and signals that Harris wants to be seen as a law-and-order candidate. —Laura Washington, Chicago Tribune, 2 Sep. 2024

The week ahead is highlighting your intellect and ability to learn and speak up for yourself and your opinions. —Kyle Thomas, Peoplemag, 1 Sep. 2024

The implication is that Harris’s success can only be attributed to her race and gender, not her intellect or experience. —Ali Breland, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2024

Trust your instincts and intellect, and change only what’s necessary. —Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 4 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin intellectus, from intellegere to understand — more at intelligent

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

intellect

noun

in·​tel·​lect ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt 

1

a

: the power of knowing

b

: the capacity for thought especially when highly developed

2

: a person of notable intellect

Medical Definition

intellect

noun

in·​tel·​lect ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt 

1

: the power of knowing as distinguished from the power to feel and to will : the capacity for knowledge

2

: the capacity for rational or intelligent thought

intellectual

ˌint-ᵊl-ˈek-ch(ə-w)əl, -ˈeksh-wəl 

adjective

intellectually adverb