genius
JEE-nee-uhs
Genius (noun) means a person with exceptional intelligence, talent, or creative ability. Example: “Einstein is widely regarded as a scientific genius.”
noun
1
A person with exceptional intelligence, talent, or creative ability.
"Einstein is widely regarded as a scientific genius."
"It took a genius to solve the puzzle that fast."
"Many people called the young inventor a genius after seeing her robot."
2
Exceptional natural ability or a flash of remarkable insight.
"The design shows real genius in its simplicity."
"Her genius for languages let her learn Italian in a few months."
"There was a stroke of genius in the way he fixed the leaking pipe."
adj
1
(informal) Extremely clever or brilliant.
"That's a genius idea for reusing the leftover wood."
"Using a spoon to open the tin was genius!"
"My brother had a genius plan to hide the presents."
How to use genius
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone (or something) showing extraordinary intelligence or brilliance.
Common pairings
a stroke of genius
creative genius
sheer genius
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Word forms
- Plural
- geniuses, genii
- Comparative
- more genius
- Superlative
- most genius
Fill the gap
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Einstein is widely regarded as a scientific _____.
Etymology
From Latin genius ("a person's guardian spirit; innate character"), from gignere ("to beget") — the meaning shifted over centuries from "guiding spirit" to "outstanding natural talent".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for genius
See all rhymes for genius →Frequently asked questions
What does “genius” mean?
The word “genius” means a person with exceptional intelligence, talent, or creative ability. In plain terms, someone (or something) showing extraordinary intelligence or brilliance.
How do you pronounce “genius”?
“Genius” is pronounced JEE-nee-uhs (/ˈd͡ʒin.jəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “genius” in a sentence?
Here is “genius” used in a sentence: “Einstein is widely regarded as a scientific genius.”
What is another word for “genius”?
Words with a similar meaning to “genius” include brain, brain surgeon, brainbox, brainiac, deep thinker and Einstein.
What is the opposite of “genius”?
The opposite of “genius” — its antonyms — is idiot.
What part of speech is “genius”?
Depending on how it is used, “genius” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “genius” come from?
The word “genius” comes from Latin. From Latin genius ("a person's guardian spirit; innate character"), from gignere ("to beget") — the meaning shifted over centuries from "guiding spirit" to "outstanding natural talent".
Is “genius” a common word?
“Genius” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between 'genius' and 'talent'?
Talent is a natural aptitude for something specific, while genius describes exceptional, often rare intelligence or creative ability far beyond ordinary skill. A person can be talented at music yet fall short of being called a genius.
What is the difference between 'genius' and 'prodigy'?
A prodigy is a young person who shows remarkable ability at an early age, while genius refers to extraordinary ability at any age. All prodigies are highly gifted, but 'genius' is not limited to the young.
Can 'genius' describe an idea rather than a person?
Yes. Besides naming a brilliant person, 'genius' can mean exceptional natural ability or a flash of insight, as in 'the genius of the plan.' In this sense it describes the quality of brilliance itself.
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