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Definition of shrewd

shrewd

/ʃruːd/
shrewd
Adverb:shrewdly
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shrewd Lexical Profile

shrewd Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute and practically clever, especially in business or practical matters.

Example

"The company's rapid growth was largely due to a series of shrewd investments made by its founder."

2

(archaic or literary, of weather or cold) Piercing and bitterly cold; sharp.

Example

"The travelers pulled their heavy wool cloaks tight against the shrewd winter wind."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for shrewd

• Nearby Words

shredder
shreveport
shrew
shrewd
shrewdly
shrewdness
shrewish

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English shrewed, the past participle of shrewen ('to curse'), derived from shrewe ('a wicked person' or the shrewmouse, historically believed to have a venomous bite). The meaning gradually shifted from 'evil' or 'severe' to 'cunning' and finally to 'practically astute.'

Cite this Entry

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