Word
intellect
Phoneticsin·tel·lect, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɪnəˌɫɛkt/
UK/ˈɪntəlˌɛkt/
Definitions
01the ability to think
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. the power of your mind to think, learn, and understand things that are not simple.
n. the faculty of reasoning and understanding objectively, especially with regard to abstract or academic matters. Uncountable in this sense.
“She used her intellect to solve the complex puzzle that had confused everyone else.”
“The philosopher argued that human intellect is what distinguishes our species from other animals, allowing for the creation of complex moral systems.”
Synonyms
02a smart person
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Formal
n. a person who is very intelligent and enjoys thinking about serious or difficult ideas.
n. a person of superior mental ability, typically one who engages in academic or creative pursuits. Countable in this sense.
“The university invited the greatest intellects of the century to speak at the event.”
“Though he was a brilliant scientist, he struggled to communicate his findings to those who were not fellow intellects in his field.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“As the film progresses, it becomes clear that Kris’ intellect – particularly her vast knowledge of films – is a way to avoid her own sexual desires.” “Mary Gaudron , Australia’s first female justice of the high court of Australia, has been remembered as a woman who broke down barriers for women across Australia, for her intellect and courage.” Etymology
Borrowed from Late Latin intellēctus (“understanding, intellect”), from Latin intellegō (“understand; reason”), from inter (“between, among”) + legō (“read”), with connotation of bind.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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