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as in power
a natural ability of the mind or body although they are well into their 80s, the mental faculties of this couple are as sharp as ever

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the noun faculty differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of faculty are aptitude, bent, genius, gift, knack, and talent. While all these words mean "a special ability for doing something," faculty applies to an innate or less often acquired ability for a particular accomplishment or function.

a faculty for remembering names

When would aptitude be a good substitute for faculty?

The words aptitude and faculty can be used in similar contexts, but aptitude implies a natural liking for some activity and the likelihood of success in it.

a mechanical aptitude

How are the words bent and aptitude related as synonyms of faculty?

Bent is nearly equal to aptitude but it stresses inclination perhaps more than specific ability.

a family with an artistic bent

In what contexts can genius take the place of faculty?

While the synonyms genius and faculty are close in meaning, genius suggests impressive inborn creative ability.

has no great genius for poetry

When could gift be used to replace faculty?

The meanings of gift and faculty largely overlap; however, gift often implies special favor by God or nature.

the gift of singing beautifully

When might knack be a better fit than faculty?

The words knack and faculty are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, knack implies a comparatively minor but special ability making for ease and dexterity in performance.

the knack of getting along

When is talent a more appropriate choice than faculty?

Although the words talent and faculty have much in common, talent suggests a marked natural ability that needs to be developed.

has enough talent to succeed

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of faculty Kim is a faculty member at the University of Washington Tacoma and researcher who focuses on post-adoption well-being, particularly among adult adoptees, and grew up in Minnesota. Imani Cruzen, Twin Cities, 5 Apr. 2025 Bonnell was reported missing on Jan. 28 following separate requests for wellness checks from his girlfriend and a faculty member at Methodist University, where he was enrolled in the school’s physician assistant program. David Matthews, New York Daily News, 3 Apr. 2025 After a lengthy renovation, Mullins Library on the University of Arkansas campus has reopened to students, staff and faculty. Andy Shupe, Arkansas Online, 1 Apr. 2025 The school made local headlines last year as dozens of faculty and staff were laid off amid that university’s enrollment and financial issues. Olivia Olander, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for faculty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for faculty
Noun
  • Natural gas has the opportunity to compete with coal, diesel, and other inefficient power sources across the globe, delivering cleaner and cheaper power.
    Steven Dudash, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Nearly half a million homes and businesses also lost power.
    Jade Walker, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Director Roshan Sethi and all the talent have been fantastic.
    Matt Minton, Variety, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Royals starter Kris Bubic continues to marvel at his teammate’s elite talent on the field.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The funding losses, Shaffer said, challenge the department’s ability to protect vulnerable residents and respond to emerging health threats.
    Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 5 Apr. 2025
  • There are many reasons a person might hesitate to partake in French ring, a sport where dogs are judged on their agility, obedience and ability to provide protection.
    Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 5 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Despite his proven capabilities, Strickland's title run was relatively brief, serving as a catalyst for Bryan Danielson's subsequent feud with Jon Moxley.
    Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Many of China’s technologies built for civilian purposes are being built with dual-use capabilities, with an eye toward using them in an invasion of Taiwan.
    Jill Goldenziel, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His and Hubbard's distinct approaches underscore the region’s aptitude for versatility.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 24 Mar. 2025
  • According to the archaeologists, the transition from stone to bone was a feat of abstract thinking, requiring an aptitude in toolmaking and an appreciation that the knapping techniques that worked on one material would also work on another.
    Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 5 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • With members like Iraq, Kazakhstan and the U.A.E. adding to capacity, pressure on the remaining members (translation Saudi Arabia) can only grow.
    Michael Lynch, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Though Villa’s revenue has markedly improved, owing to unlocking Champions League riches, a major issue impacting this is their stadium capacity.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Be Forward-Looking If feedback is such a gift, why do most of us hate receiving it as well as giving it?
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
  • The wines aren’t really exported, either, so a bottle carried carefully back to the USA makes a welcome gift.
    Sophie Friedman, AFAR Media, 3 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The Miami Marlins' right fielder also stole 16 bags in 18 attempts last year, showing a knack for swiping bases with a high success rate.
    Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Keep Light Bulbs From Sticking Outdoor light bulbs can have a knack for sticking in the socket after long periods of time, leaving you with the task of trying to unscrew a stubborn bulb without breaking the glass.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 4 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Faculty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/faculty. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

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