Langimage
English

cleverness

|clev-er-ness|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈklɛvərnəs/

🇬🇧

/ˈklɛvənɪs/

(clever)

intelligent and resourceful

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeAdverb
clevercleverercleverestcleverly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'clever' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'cliver,' where 'cliver' meant 'nimble or skillful.'

Historical Evolution

'cliver' transformed into the modern English word 'clever' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'nimble or skillful,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'intelligent or skillful.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being clever; intelligence or skillfulness.

Her cleverness in solving puzzles is impressive.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35