the ability to think quickly and clearly; mental sharpness, mental faculties; senses

keep your wits about you, have the wit to do something, at one's wits' end

Formal and Informal Expressions of wits

In different contexts, you can replace 'wits' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'intelligence, mental acuity' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'smarts, brainpower' is a commonplace synonym.

wits: Explore its Definition & Usage

wits Definition

1the ability to think quickly and clearly; mental sharpness
2mental 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

Antonyms for wits

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.'