¹wise

noun \ˈwīz\

Definition of WISE

: manner, way <in any wise>

See wise defined for kids

Origin of WISE

Middle English, from Old English wīse; akin to Old High German wīsa manner, Greek eidos form, idein to see — more at wit

First Known Use: before 12th century

Rhymes with WISE

guise, prize, rise, size

²wise

adjective

: having or showing wisdom or knowledge usually from learning or experiencing many things

: based on good reasoning or information : showing good sense or judgment

: saying things that are rude or insulting

wis·erwis·est

Full Definition of WISE

a : characterized by wisdom : marked by deep understanding, keen discernment, and a capacity for sound judgment

b : exercising or showing sound judgment : prudent <a wise investor>

a : evidencing or hinting at the possession of inside information : knowing

b : possessing inside information <the police got wise to his whereabouts>

c : crafty, shrewd

d : aware of or informed about a particular matter —usually used in the comparative in negative constructions with the <was none the wiser about their plans>

archaic : skilled in magic or divination

: insolent, smart-alecky, fresh <a tough kid with a wise mouth>

— wise·ly adverb

— wise·ness noun

See wise defined for English-language learners

Origin of WISE

Middle English wis, from Old English wīs; akin to Old High German wīs wise, Old English witan to know — more at wit

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to WISE

Synonyms: discerning, insightful, perceptive, prudent, sagacious, sage, sapient

Antonyms: unperceptive, unwise

Synonym Discussion of WISE

wise, sage, sapient, judicious, prudent, sensible, sane mean having or showing sound judgment. wise suggests great understanding of people and of situations and unusual discernment and judgment in dealing with them <wise beyond his tender years>. sage suggests wide experience, great learning, and wisdom <the sage advice of my father>. sapient suggests great sagacity and discernment <the sapient musings of an old philosopher>. judicious stresses a capacity for reaching wise decisions or just conclusions <judicious parents using kindness and discipline in equal measure>. prudent suggests exercise of the restraint of sound practical wisdom and discretion <a prudent decision to wait out the storm>. sensible applies to action guided and restrained by good sense and rationality <a sensible woman who was not fooled by flattery>. sane stresses mental soundness, rationality, and levelheadedness <remained sane even in times of crises>.