wits

[wɪts]

wits Definition

• 1. the ability to think quickly and clearly; mental sharpness
• 2. mental faculties; senses

Using wits: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wits" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He used all his wits to escape from the kidnappers.

• Example

  She had the wits to call the police when she saw the burglar.

• Example

  The comedian's jokes were quick-witted and hilarious.

wits Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for wits

• intelligence
• cleverness
• shrewdness
• astuteness
• acumen

Antonyms for wits

• stupidity
• ignorance

Phrases with wits

• keep your wits about you

  to stay alert and be ready for anything that might happen

  Example

  When traveling alone, it's important to keep your wits about you.

• have the wit to do something

  to have the intelligence or common sense to do something

  Example

  He didn't have the wit to realize he was being scammed.

• at one's wits' end

  to be so confused, upset, or frustrated that one doesn't know what to do next

  Example

  After trying to fix the computer for hours, I was at my wits' end.

Origins of wits

from Old English 'witan', meaning 'to know'

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Summary: wits in Brief

The term 'wits' [wɪts] refers to the ability to think quickly and clearly, as well as one's mental faculties. It is often used in phrases like 'keep your wits about you,' meaning to stay alert, and 'at one's wits' end,' meaning to be extremely frustrated or confused. Examples of its use include 'He used all his wits to escape from the kidnappers' and 'The comedian's jokes were quick-witted and hilarious.'