intellect

noun

in·​tel·​lect ˈin-tə-ˌlekt How to pronounce intellect (audio)
1
a
: the power of knowing as distinguished from the power to feel and to will : the capacity for knowledge
b
: the capacity for rational or intelligent thought especially when highly developed
2
: a person with great intellectual powers

Examples of intellect in a Sentence

She is a woman of superior intellect. She has a sharp intellect. We were required to read a book every week in order to develop our intellects. music that appeals to the intellect while still satisfying the emotions
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With a gifted intellect and a solid work ethic, her genuine kindness truly sets her apart. Caroline Beck, The Indianapolis Star, 4 Nov. 2024 Digital capitalism thrives on exploiting users’ time, intellect, and data. Gerui Wang, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024 This is a great time to start new conversations or projects that challenge your intellect. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Nov. 2024 Happy Birthday: Use intellect and timing to stay ahead of the game and apply your energy to achieve positive gains. Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 13 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intellect 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin intellectus, from intellegere to understand — more at intelligent

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of intellect was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near intellect

Cite this Entry

“Intellect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellect. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

intellect

noun
in·​tel·​lect ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt How to pronounce intellect (audio)
1
a
: the power of knowing
b
: the capacity for thought especially when highly developed
2
: a person of notable intellect

Medical Definition

intellect

noun
in·​tel·​lect ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt How to pronounce intellect (audio)
1
: the power of knowing as distinguished from the power to feel and to will : the capacity for knowledge
2
: the capacity for rational or intelligent thought
intellectually adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on intellect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!