WIT

n. 1 (in sing. or pl.) intelligence; quick understanding (has quick wits; a nimble wit). 2 a the unexpected, quick, and humorous combining or contrasting of ideas or expressions (conversation sparkling with wit). b the power of giving intellectual pleasure by this. 3 a person possessing such a power, esp. a cleverly humorous person. øat one's wit's (or wits') end utterly at a loss or in despair. have (or keep) one's wits about one be alert or vigilant or of lively intelligence. live by one's wits live by ingenious or crafty expedients, without a settled occupation. out of one's wits mad, distracted. set one's wits to argue with. øøwitted adj. (in sense 1); (also in comb.). [OE wit(t), gewit(t) f. Gmc]