adj.
Pronunciation: in- ' te-l ə -j ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin intelligent-, intelligens, present participle of intelligere, intellegere to understand, from inter- + legere to gather, select ― more at LEGEND
Date: 1509
1 a : having or indicating a high or satisfactory degree of intelligence and mental capacity b : revealing or reflecting good judgment or sound thought : SKILLFUL
2 a : possessing intelligence b : guided or directed by intellect : RATIONAL
3 a : guided or controlled by a computer especially : using a built-in microprocessor for automatic operation, for processing of data, or for achieving greater versatility ― compare DUMB 7 b : able to produce printed material from digital signals <an intelligent copier>
– in · tel · li · gen · tial \ - ˌ te-l ə - ' jen(t)-sh ə l \ adjective
– in · tel · li · gent · ly \ - ' te-l ə -j ə nt-l ē \ adverb
synonyms INTELLIGENT , CLEVER , ALERT , QUICK-WITTED mean mentally keen or quick. INTELLIGENT stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems <an intelligent person could assemble it fast>. CLEVER implies native ability or aptness and sometimes suggests a lack of more substantial qualities < clever with words>. ALERT stresses quickness in perceiving and understanding < alert to new technology>. QUICK-WITTED implies promptness in finding answers in debate or in devising expedients in moments of danger or challenge <no match for his quick-witted opponent>.