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
Kilmer’s specialty was giving the audience glimpses of intellect and compassion behind his steely gaze.
Cruise, on the other hand, could never have pulled off Iceman.
—
John Devore, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2025
In terms of demeanor, Cavett and Mulaney also share a lot in common, as both are known for infusing their comedy with a certain level of intellect and intrigue.
—Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 28 Mar. 2025
Per Kristine's book The Spark, Jacob has autism and a genius-level intellect.
—Randall Colburn, EW.com, 19 Mar. 2025
The story of how Clementina Rind became a pivotal figure in early American journalism is one of resilience, intellect and fortitude.
—Alexandra Cox, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intellect
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.
John Devore, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2025
In terms of demeanor, Cavett and Mulaney also share a lot in common, as both are known for infusing their comedy with a certain level of intellect and intrigue.
—Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 28 Mar. 2025
Per Kristine's book The Spark, Jacob has autism and a genius-level intellect.
—Randall Colburn, EW.com, 19 Mar. 2025
The story of how Clementina Rind became a pivotal figure in early American journalism is one of resilience, intellect and fortitude.
—Alexandra Cox, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intellect
Cite this Entry
“Intellect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellect. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.
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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share