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Definition of intellect

intellect

/ˈɪn.tə.lɛkt/
in · tel · lect
Adverb:intellectually
•
Plural:intellects
•
Adjective:intellectual
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intellect Lexical Profile

intellect Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The faculty of reasoning and understanding objectively, especially with regard to abstract or academic matters, as distinct from feeling or instinct.

Example

"The complex philosophical treatise appealed to her sharp intellect rather than her emotions."

2

A person possessing a highly developed capacity for thought and reasoning.

Example

"The conference brought together some of the greatest scientific intellects of our generation."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

integrator
integrity
intel
intellect
intellectual
intellectuality
intellectualize

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in Middle English from Old French or directly from Latin intellectus ('perception, discernment, understanding'), derived from the verb intellegere ('to understand'), combining inter- ('between') and legere ('to choose, gather, or read').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Intellect. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/intellect
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