Definitions

intelligent

[in-tel-i-juhnt] / ɪnˈtɛl ɪ dʒənt /

ADJECTIVE

very smart

Synonyms

STRONGEST

astute brainy bright brilliant creative imaginative inventive knowledgeable original perceptive rational resourceful smart well-informed wise

WEAK

able acute alert alive all there apt calculating capable clever comprehending deep discerning enlightened exceptional highbrow ingenious instructed keen knowing penetrating perspicacious profound quick quick-witted ready reasonable responsible sage sharp thinking together understanding whiz witty

Antonyms

STRONGEST

dark dull ignorant normal old stupid typical unaware uncreative uneducated unimaginative unintelligent uninventive unreasonable unresourceful worn

WEAK

foolish idiotic imbecile

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.

I just needed “Disclosure Day” to have the same spark of intelligent life.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

It is also believed the bear "turned on the water tap" to drink, he added, describing it as "extremely intelligent".

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

He suggested that discovering intelligent life beyond Earth could force people to look beyond their differences.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Mr Justice Kinney said Natalie knew what she wanted from life and was "intelligent, passionate and funny".

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

These were highly intelligent, able-bodied men who were denied access to stable high-paying jobs, which in turn kept them from being able to buy homes, send their kids to college, or save for retirement.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama

Vocabulary lists containing intelligent

More Positive Words to Describe a Person

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!

Positive Words to Describe People, List 1

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!

List 5

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!