deft
Deft (adj) means Skillful and quick, especially with the hands. Example: “The surgeon made a series of deft incisions.”
How to use deft
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSkilled and precise in movement or handling — nimble and capable.
Word forms
defter comparative, deftest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The surgeon made a series of _____ incisions.
Etymology
From Old English dæfte ("mild, fitting"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "suitable." A doublet of "daft," which took a very different meaning path over the centuries.
Rhymes for deft
See all rhymes for deft →Frequently asked questions
What does “deft” mean?
The word “deft” means skillful and quick, especially with the hands. In plain terms, skilled and precise in movement or handling — nimble and capable.
How do you pronounce “deft”?
“Deft” is pronounced dehft (/dɛft/ in IPA).
How do you use “deft” in a sentence?
Here is “deft” used in a sentence: “The surgeon made a series of deft incisions.”
What part of speech is “deft”?
“Deft” is an adjective.
Where does the word “deft” come from?
The word “deft” comes from Old English. From Old English dæfte ("mild, fitting"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "suitable." A doublet of "daft," which took a very different meaning path over the centuries.
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