Intellect Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

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intellect

noun

in·​tel·​lect ˈin-tə-ˌlekt Synonyms of intellect 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 See all Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

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 These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples. With a gifted intellect and a solid work ethic, her genuine kindness truly sets her apart. Caroline Beck, The Indianapolis Star , 4 Nov. 2024 Digital capitalism thrives on exploiting users’ time, intellect , and data. Gerui Wang, Forbes , 2 Nov. 2024 This is a great time to start new conversations or projects that challenge your intellect . Meghan Rose, Glamour , 1 Nov. 2024 Happy Birthday: Use intellect and timing to stay ahead of the game and apply your energy to achieve positive gains. Eugenia Last, The Mercury News , 13 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intellect

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

Time Traveler The first known use of intellect was in the 14th century See more words from the same century

Dictionary Entries Near intellect

intel

intellect

intellection

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“Intellect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellect. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on intellect

Nglish: Translation of intellect for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of intellect for Arabic Speakers

Last Updated: 11 Nov 2024 - Updated example sentences Love words? Need even more definitions?

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