VocabDictionary

wise

/waɪz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment; sagacious.

Example Sentences:
  • It was a wise decision to save money for the future.
  • She offered some wise advice about navigating the new job.
2.noun

(Archaic or in specific adverbial phrases) A way, manner, or fashion.

Example Sentences:
  • He was in no wise prepared for the sudden turn of events.
  • The ancient ritual was performed in a particular wise.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “wise”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

From Old English *wīs* 'learned, sagacious, sensible, clever', from Proto-Germanic *wīssaz* (source also of Old Saxon *wis*, Old Norse *víss*, Old Frisian *wis*, Dutch *wijs*, German *weise* 'wise'), from PIE root *weid-* 'to see', also 'to know'. Related to *wit*. The noun sense 'way, manner' (as in *likewise*, *otherwise*) comes from Old English *wīse* 'way, manner, custom', from the same Germanic root.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a wise old owl, often depicted as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions About “wise

1. What is the meaning of “wise” in English?

In English, wise (adjective) is defined as: “Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment; sagacious.”.

2. How do you use “wise” in a sentence?

It was a wise decision to save money for the future.

3. What are English synonyms of “wise”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “wise”?

From Old English *wīs* 'learned, sagacious, sensible, clever', from Proto-Germanic *wīssaz* (source also of Old Saxon *wis*, Old Norse *víss*, Old Frisian *wis*, Dutch *wijs*, German *weise* 'wise'), from PIE root *weid-* 'to see', also 'to know'. Related to *wit*. The noun sense 'way, manner' (as in *likewise*, *otherwise*) comes from Old English *wīse* 'way, manner, custom', from the same Germanic root.