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.
Lawler’s Suzy is a poignant mass of fierce intellect and crushing vulnerability, of resolute determination and emotional chaos. Chad Jones, The Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2025 The shows demonstrate the breadth of Merritt’s curiosity, intellect, and playful sensibility, touching on everything from the struggle against nature to an arguably unhealthy obsession with the post-hardcore/emo band My Chemical Romance. Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 21 Jan. 2025 The vintage cheapness is itself another joke, indicating the target demographic and Old Glory’s disregard for its intellect. The New York Times, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2025 At work and in our communities, we are often surrounded by individuals with extraordinary strength, intellect, and capability. Alan Fleischmann, TIME, 15 Jan. 2025 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 11 Feb. 2025.

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

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