noun
savant
SAV-uhnt
Savant (noun) means a highly learned or knowledgeable person, especially in science or literature. Example: “The historian was regarded as a savant on ancient civilisations.”
noun
1
A highly learned or knowledgeable person, especially in science or literature.
"The historian was regarded as a savant on ancient civilisations."
2
Someone with an extraordinary, specific talent in one narrow area, such as music or mental calculation.
"He was a musical savant, able to replay a symphony after hearing it once."
How to use savant
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA person who is either broadly learned, or exceptionally gifted in one specific skill.
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Word forms
- Plural
- savants
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The historian was regarded as a _____ on ancient civilisations.
Etymology
Borrowed from French savant, "learned person," from Latin sapiō, "to be wise." The narrower "gifted talent" sense comes from the older term idiot savant.
Related words
Rhymes for savant
See all rhymes for savant →Frequently asked questions
What does “savant” mean?
The word “savant” means a highly learned or knowledgeable person, especially in science or literature. In plain terms, a person who is either broadly learned, or exceptionally gifted in one specific skill.
How do you pronounce “savant”?
“Savant” is pronounced SAV-uhnt (/sæˈvɑnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “savant” in a sentence?
Here is “savant” used in a sentence: “The historian was regarded as a savant on ancient civilisations.”
What is another word for “savant”?
Words with a similar meaning to “savant” include erudite and expert.
What part of speech is “savant”?
“Savant” is a noun.
Where does the word “savant” come from?
The word “savant” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French savant, "learned person," from Latin sapiō, "to be wise." The narrower "gifted talent" sense comes from the older term idiot savant.
How many meanings does “savant” have?
“Savant” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a highly learned or knowledgeable person, especially in science or literature.
