English Reference
adjective

intelligent

adj.
US /ˌɪnˈtɛɫədʒənt/ UK /ɪntˈɛlɪdʒənt/ in·tel·li·gent

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    having the ability to learn, understand, and think about things quickly.

    possessing a high degree of mental capacity or cognitive ability.

    Simple

    She is an intelligent student who always asks very good questions in class.

    In context

    The candidate provided highly intelligent responses during the interview, demonstrating a deep understanding of the complex geopolitical issues at hand.

    stupidunintelligent
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing good judgment or careful thinking.

    resulting from or showing sound reasoning and careful consideration.

    Simple

    The company made an intelligent decision to invest in new technology early.

    In context

    The architect's intelligent use of space allowed the small apartment to feel open and airy despite its limited footprint.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Computing

    describing a machine or program that can collect information and make its own decisions.

    referring to devices or software capable of autonomous data processing and adaptive response.

    Simple

    The building has an intelligent heating system that adjusts the temperature automatically.

    In context

    Modern intelligent assistants rely on sophisticated algorithms to interpret natural language and anticipate user needs based on historical data.


Etymology 1

From Middle French intelligent, from Latin intellegēns (“discerning”), present active participle of intellegō (“understand, comprehend”), itself from inter (“between”) + legō (“choose, pick out, read”).

Etymology 2

Partly from Russian интеллиге́нт (intelligént) and partly from the adjective.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin intelligens
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated