brilliant

bril-liant · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    (of light or color) Very bright and radiant.

  2. 2.

    A diamond of the finest cut and exceptional brilliance.

  3. 3.

    Exceptionally clever or talented.

  4. 4.

    Outstanding; excellent.

  5. 5.

    (British informal) Very good; wonderful.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    brilliant mind — an exceptionally intelligent person
  • •
    that's brilliant — (British) that's excellent/wonderful

Related words

Antonyms: dim, dull, mediocre, stupid
See also: bright, genius, outstanding
Synonyms: bright, dazzling, excellent, genius, outstanding

Etymology

From French "brillant" (shining), present participle of "briller" (to shine), from Italian "brillare," possibly from Latin "beryllus" (beryl, a precious stone).