witty
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
using words in a clever and funny way.
characterised by quick and inventive verbal humour.
Simple“He gave a witty speech at the wedding that made everyone laugh.”
In context“The playwright was celebrated for her witty dialogue, which managed to be both intellectually stimulating and genuinely hilarious.”
Antonyms - 02 C2 Proficiency
having a sharp mind or good judgment.
possessing a strong intellect or intellectual capacity; insightful.
Simple“The old stories describe him as a witty man who could solve any puzzle.”
In context“In the seventeenth-century text, the author refers to the 'witty' architect, meaning one who possesses great technical skill and ingenuity.”
UsageIn modern English, this sense has been almost entirely replaced by 'clever' or 'intelligent'.
Teacher's tipLearners will mostly encounter this sense in historical literature or Shakespearean plays; in modern conversation, 'witty' always implies humour.
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