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.
His omnivorous intellect went from one topic to another, exploring them in minute detail. Ilan Stavans, The Atlantic, 15 Apr. 2025 Gabriel has long funneled his capacious intellect and empathy into music. Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2025 Charlie has to use his intellect and his understanding of how to turn the environment against his targets. Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 11 Apr. 2025 Although Agathe is quite lovely in a less conventional way, Piani allows her intellect and personality to be the character’s most attractive traits. Peter Debruge, Variety, 9 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intellect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellect. Accessed 24 Apr. 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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