as in intelligent
having or showing quickness of mind the quick-witted child easily figured out the trick to making the toy work

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word quick-witted distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of quick-witted are alert, clever, and intelligent. While all these words mean "mentally keen or quick," quick-witted implies promptness in finding answers in debate or in devising expedients in moments of danger or challenge.

no match for his quick-witted opponent

When is alert a more appropriate choice than quick-witted?

Although the words alert and quick-witted have much in common, alert stresses quickness in perceiving and understanding.

alert to new technology

When is it sensible to use clever instead of quick-witted?

While the synonyms clever and quick-witted are close in meaning, clever implies native ability or aptness and sometimes suggests a lack of more substantial qualities.

clever with words

Where would intelligent be a reasonable alternative to quick-witted?

The synonyms intelligent and quick-witted are sometimes interchangeable, but intelligent stresses success in coping with new situations and solving problems.

an intelligent person could assemble it fast

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of quick-witted The vocalist whose acerbic, quick-witted persona on X has become one of his calling cards was at it again a few weeks ago when asked which act will open up his and brother Noel Gallagher’s shows in South America in November. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 1 May 2025 This inspiring, coming-of-age drama is the story of Melody Brooks, a quick-witted, non-verbal sixth grader with cerebral palsy who uses a wheelchair. Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 1 May 2025 The child actors were adorably quick-witted, but the sequence lacked bite. Alex Ross, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025 Who could ever forget Ginger Grant, the sultry movie star with quick-witted, comedic timing on the beloved 1960s sitcom, Gilligan’s Island? Jeff Conway, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for quick-witted
Recent Examples of Synonyms for quick-witted
Adjective
  • Designing the Future of AI Artificial intelligence is powering a new generation of tools that combine logic with intelligent action.
    William Jones, USA Today, 28 May 2025
  • By freeing physicians from the need to be behind their computers during appointments, these intelligent assistants enable a more personal and engaging interaction with patients.
    Rakhee Langer, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • Charlie Davis Season: 46 Placed: 2nd If Q was the hurricane blowing through Survivor 46, Davis was a source of calm geniality at the center, constantly quoting Taylor Swift songs while obscuring his careful, clever gameplay.
    Ben Rosenstock, Time, 29 May 2025
  • The 76 gasoline brand, after all, evokes the patriotism of 1776 — a clever marketing ploy.
    Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • One key to that type of extended run, says Tear, is the smart deployment of follow-up singles — songs from a popular artist that prevent listeners from getting tired of their mega-hit, but don’t necessarily get in its way, either.
    Jason Lipshutz, Billboard, 28 May 2025
  • Read on for some of the best smart bird feeders available now.
    Bailey Berg, Architectural Digest, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • Shooting victim Sarah Milgrim remembered as 'a light' who fought antisemitism Israeli Embassy shooting: See the scene Real quick All American Rejects singer explains what's up with viral pop-up shows.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 23 May 2025
  • The ship was to be the second major navy surface vessel revealed in quick succession by North Korea.
    Gawon Bae, CNN Money, 22 May 2025
Adjective
  • And after a third-place finish at the only other race he’s been in this year — the Daytona 500 — who’s to say Johnson can’t be the fastest again?
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 22 May 2025
  • That's much faster than most tablets, many of which require two or more hours to recharge.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 22 May 2025
Adjective
  • Every sports league is better with a bad guy, and Reese subtly demeaning Clark is a brilliant marketing ploy.
    Mac Engel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 May 2025
  • Herbert works hard and plays hard — especially when his kids are out of town at camp, like Capricorns do, with his beautiful and brilliant wife, Lisa, by his side.
    Lisa Stardust, People.com, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • His equaliser against Leganes in March was a perfect example, with Bellingham sharpest to react when a shot cannoned off the crossbar.
    Mario Cortegana, New York Times, 22 May 2025
  • The first sign of an eruption at the volcano will be a sharp increase in the number of earthquakes around it, the post states.
    Louis Casiano, FOXNews.com, 21 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Quick-witted.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/quick-witted. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

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