intelligent

in-tel-li-gent · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Having or showing intelligence; able to learn and understand things quickly and easily.

  2. 2.

    (Of a device or system) able to vary its behavior in response to varying situations and requirements.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    highly intelligent — having exceptional mental abilities
  • •
    intelligent design — the theory that life was created by an intelligent being
  • •
    intelligent life — living beings capable of complex thought

Related words

Antonyms: dull, stupid, unintelligent
See also: clever, intelligence, smart
Synonyms: bright, clever, smart

Etymology

From Latin intelligens, present participle of intelligere ("to understand"), from inter- ("between") + legere ("to choose, read"). The word has been used in English since the early 16th century.