clever

Main Entry:: clev·er
Pronunciation:: \ˈkle-vər\
Function:: adjective
Etymology:: Middle English cliver, perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Dan dialect kløver alert, skillful
Date:: circa 1595

1 a: skillful or adroit in using the hands or body : nimble <clever fingers> b: mentally quick and resourceful <a clever young lawyer>2: marked by wit or ingenuity <a clever solution> <a clever idea>3dialect a: good b: easy to use or handle

— clev·er·ish

\-v(ə-)rish\ adjective

— clev·er·ly

\-vər-lē\ adverb

— clev·er·ness

\-vər-nəs\ noun

synonyms clever, adroit, cunning, ingenious mean having or showing practical wit or skill in contriving. clever stresses physical or mental quickness, deftness, or great aptitude <a person clever with horses>. adroit often implies a skillful use of expedients to achieve one's purpose in spite of difficulties <an adroit negotiator>. cunning implies great skill in constructing or creating <a filmmaker cunning in his use of special effects>. ingenious suggests the power of inventing or discovering a new way of accomplishing something <an ingenious software engineer>.

synonyms see in addition intelligent

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