intellect
noun
in·tel·lect
ˈin-tə-ˌlekt 
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
Experimental and avant-garde, this Mercury transit shifts the collective conversation toward intellect, social breakthroughs and future-focused thinking.
—
Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026
Brilliant himself, Leider was also quick to spot keen intellect in others.
—News Desk, Artforum, 19 Jan. 2026
Truly a fascinating human being of rare talent with a huge, unconventional and powerful intellect.
—Laura Ness, Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2026
Scholars are selected through an application process designed to identify leadership potential, intellect, and strong character.
—Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 17 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for intellect
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Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026
Brilliant himself, Leider was also quick to spot keen intellect in others.
—News Desk, Artforum, 19 Jan. 2026
Truly a fascinating human being of rare talent with a huge, unconventional and powerful intellect.
—Laura Ness, Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2026
Scholars are selected through an application process designed to identify leadership potential, intellect, and strong character.
—Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 17 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for intellect
Cite this Entry
“Intellect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellect. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
intellect
noun
in·tel·lect
ˈint-ᵊl-ˌekt
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
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
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