adept

[uh-dept, ad-ept, uh-dept] / əˈdɛpt, ˈæd ɛpt, əˈdɛpt /

ADJECTIVE

very able

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accomplished adroit capable deft proficient skilled skillful versed

STRONG

ace clean crack crackerjack expert hotshot quick savvy sharp slick smooth there whiz wizard

WEAK

brainy dexterous hot know stuff masterful masterly no dummy no slouch nobody's fool on the ball on the beam practiced sharp as a tack up to speed

Antonyms

STRONGEST

awkward clumsy green incapable incompetent inept inexperienced unable unskilled unskillful

STRONG

coarse ignorant indefinite lazy rough slow stupid unintelligent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He has also shown himself to be adept at curling free-kicks, which have earned comparisons to David Beckham.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

However, for a few of the weapons—the Patriots, THAADs, and SM missiles, which are adept at shooting down short-to-medium-range ballistic missiles—there are no good substitutes.

From Slate • Apr. 24, 2026

He has reportedly built a reputation as a career Apple insider who is decisive, collaborative and adept at navigating the company’s culture.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

The leagues will tell you that these changes are far less disruptive to younger viewers, who are much more adept at locating programming.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

He was affectionate in ways she rarely encountered in men, and he was adept at business.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

Vocabulary lists containing adept

100 SAT Words Beginning with "A"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Phantom Tollbooth

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Bright Ideas: Synonyms For "Smart"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!