emotional intelligence

noun

: the ability to recognize, understand, and deal skillfully with one's own emotions and the emotions of others (as by regulating one's emotions or by showing empathy and good judgment in social interactions)

A large part of emotional intelligence is being able to think about and empathize with how other people are feeling. This often involves considering how you would respond if you were in the same situation.

—Kendra Cherry

We know that young children learn to identify, explain, and regulate their emotions, but we know much less about how children learn these things. They undoubtedly acquire some of their emotional intelligence from adults–—parents, teachers, and coaches, for example.

—Lawrence T. White

… thousands of workers during the "Great Resignation" discovered a new road map to success: being able to recognize and walk away from abusive situations. … Empathy, respectfulness and emotional intelligence are hallmarks of leaders for whom people enjoy working.

—Karla L. Miller

—abbreviation EI

called also emotional quotient

Examples of emotional intelligence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Begin by helping emerging leaders develop greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence—the foundation for all other leadership capabilities. —Tarun Galagali, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025

Leaders will need to be more human — not less — emphasizing emotional intelligence, ethical decision-making and mentorship that AI cannot replicate. —Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 20 Mar. 2025

She was credited for being one of the creators of the Apple Store cultural experience and is known for her emotional intelligence. —Nollyanne Delacruz, The Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2025

And Grant validating everyone regardless of the status of the relationship isn’t a sign of emotional intelligence. —Ali Barthwell, Vulture, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for emotional intelligence

• counterintelligence