wit
word
/ˈwɪt/
wit
/wˈɪt/
wit
Definition
Wit is the ability to say clever and funny things quickly. It can also refer to intelligent humor that shows sharp thinking.
Usage & Nuances
Usually positive and somewhat literary. Common patterns: 'quick wit', 'dry wit', 'sharp wit'. 'Wit' often suggests intelligent humor, not loud or silly joking. Don't confuse it with general intelligence or with 'wisdom'.
Spanish: ingenio - agudezaPortuguese (BR): esperteza - sagacidade - humor inteligentePortuguese (PT): engenho - argúcia - humor inteligenteChinese (Simplified): 机智 - 风趣Chinese (Traditional): 機智 - 風趣Hindi: हाज़िरजवाबी - बुद्धिचातुर्यArabic: الذكاء السريع - خفة الدم الذكيةBengali: বুদ্ধি - উপস্থিত বুদ্ধিRussian: остроумиеJapanese: 機知 - ウィットVietnamese: sự dí dỏm - sự hóm hỉnhKorean: 재치Turkish: nüktedanlık - hazırcevaplıkUrdu: ذہانت (لطیف مزاح)Indonesian: kecerdasan - kelucuan
Example Sentences
Her wit made everyone laugh at dinner.
basic
I like her dry wit—it takes a second, but it's so funny.
natural
He is known for his quick wit.
basic
The book is full of wit and charm.
basic
Even under pressure, she never loses her wit.
natural
His wit is what makes him such a great speaker.
natural