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knowing

adj. · n.
US //ˈnoʊɪŋ// UK //nˈəʊɪŋ// know·ing
  1. 1 showing secret knowledge (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing that you know something secret or private, often with a look or a smile.

    suggestive of private knowledge or a shared secret; often used to describe facial expressions or gestures.

    Example

    She gave me a knowing look when I mentioned I was working late.

    Example

    The two colleagues exchanged a knowing glance across the boardroom, silently acknowledging the irony of the CEO's latest proposal.
  2. 2 deliberate (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    done on purpose and with full understanding of what will happen.

    done with full awareness or deliberation; intentional.

    Example

    The company was accused of a knowing violation of the safety rules.

    Example

    The court determined that the defendant had acted with knowing disregard for the potential consequences of his financial decisions.
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  1. 3 the state of having knowledge (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Academic Formal

    the act or state of having information or understanding.

    the state of possessing knowledge or the act of cognition.

    Example

    There is a great difference between knowing a fact and truly understanding it.

    Example

    The philosopher explored the distinction between the mere gathering of data and the deeper state of knowing.
Origin

From know + -ing.

Idioms1 entry

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