genius

gen-ius · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Exceptional intellectual or creative power or other natural ability.

  2. 2.

    A person who is exceptionally intelligent or creative.

  3. 3.

    A person with exceptional talent in a particular area or field.

  4. 4.

    (historical) A spirit or guiding influence believed to attend a person or place.

Forms

plural: geniuses

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    stroke of genius — a brilliant or original idea
  • •
    evil genius — someone who uses their intelligence for harmful purposes
  • •
    work of genius — something exceptionally brilliant or creative
  • •
    genius loci — the spirit or atmosphere of a place

Related words

Antonyms: dunce, fool, idiot
See also: brilliant, geniuses, prodigy, talented
Synonyms: brilliance, mastermind, prodigy, virtuoso

Etymology

From Latin genius ("attendant spirit, innate quality, talent"), from gignere ("to beget, produce"). Originally referred to a guardian spirit, later developed to mean natural ability or talent.