How Do You Spell CLEVER?

Pronunciation: [klˈɛvə] (IPA)

The word 'clever' is spelled with five letters: c-l-e-v-e-r. The pronunciation of the word is /‘klɛvə(r)/, with stress on the first syllable. The first sound is a voiceless consonant /k/, followed by an open mid front vowel /ɛ/. The second syllable has a central voiced consonant /v/ and a short ‘e’ like vowel /ə/. The final syllable has a post-alveolar, voiced obstruent /r/. This spelling is used in both British and American English with no differences in spelling or pronunciation.

CLEVER Meaning and Definition

  1. "Clever" is an adjective that describes someone or something that exhibits intelligence, quick thinking, and inventiveness. It refers to a person's ability to come up with creative solutions, often expressed through skillful and astute problem-solving abilities.

    When applied to individuals, "clever" often implies a high level of mental acuity, wit, and resourcefulness. Clever people possess a knack for finding innovative approaches, whether in academic, professional, or personal areas of life. They tend to have a sharp intellect and are capable of thinking critically and analytically. Cleverness is often associated with adaptability and the ability to quickly grasp complex ideas or situations.

    In relation to objects or ideas, "clever" points to their ingenious or imaginative design and construction. Such creations often showcase innovative, unconventional, or unexpected features that bring about increased functionality, efficiency, or delight.

    The term "clever" is sometimes used interchangeably with terms like intelligent, brilliant, or smart, but it carries a distinct connotation of sharpness and ingenuity that sets it apart. Cleverness doesn't necessarily denote knowledge or expertise in a specific field or subject; instead, it emphasizes the ability to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions in various contexts.

    In summary, "clever" describes individuals or objects that possess sharp intellect, resourcefulness, and imaginative problem-solving capabilities. It emphasizes the ability to think quickly and find innovative solutions, making it a highly prized trait in many areas of life.

  2. Skilful; ingenious; smart; not dull; ready.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CLEVER *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for CLEVER

Etymology of CLEVER

The word "clever" is believed to have originated in the mid-14th century from the Middle English word "cliver", which meant "skillful" or "expert". The etymology of "cliver" is thought to have come from the Old English word "clifer", meaning "able or skillful". Over time, "cliver" evolved into "clever", maintaining its original sense of being skillful or adept.

Idioms with the word CLEVER

  • clever dick The idiom "clever dick" refers to a person who is exceptionally intelligent, quick-witted, or clever. It is often used in a playful or teasing manner to describe someone who is particularly skilled at finding clever or humorous solutions to problems.
  • be too clever by half The idiom "be too clever by half" means to be excessively or unnecessarily clever, often resulting in overcomplicating or complicating a situation, plan, or idea. It refers to someone who believes they are being exceptionally clever or intelligent but, in reality, their excessive efforts only lead to complications or negative consequences.
  • clever dick/clogs The idiom "clever dick/clogs" is a colloquial term used to describe a person who considers themselves to be highly intelligent, knowledgeable, or clever. It is often used in a slightly derogatory manner to imply that someone is showing off their intelligence or trying to appear superior to others.
  • too clever by half The idiom "too clever by half" means being overly intelligent or cunning to the point of being arrogant, deceitful, or self-defeating. It refers to someone who is excessively confident in their intelligence and abilities, often leading to their downfall or negative consequences.
  • a clever dick The idiom "a clever dick" typically refers to someone who is exceptionally intelligent, knowledgeable, or witty, often displaying their cleverness in a boastful or arrogant manner.
  • clever boots The idiom "clever boots" is used to describe someone who is excessively or pretentiously clever or intelligent. It sarcastically refers to someone who consistently thinks they are superior or more intelligent than others.
  • box clever The idiom "box clever" means to be cunning, shrewd, or resourceful in order to achieve one's goals or outsmart others. It implies being clever and strategic, like a boxer who carefully plans and executes their moves to gain an advantage.
  • be boxing clever The idiom "be boxing clever" means to think and act in a smart, strategic, or cunning manner in order to achieve one's goals or gain an advantage over others. It often refers to using cunning tactics or outsmarting opponents, similar to how a skilled boxer employs clever strategies inside the ring.
  • clever clogs The idiom "clever clogs" is used to describe a person who is exceptionally intelligent, quick-witted, or knowledgeable. It is often used in a somewhat sarcastic or playful manner to highlight someone's intellectual abilities or to express annoyance at their know-it-all attitude.
  • a clever clogs The idiom "a clever clogs" refers to a person who is very intelligent, clever, or knowledgeable in a particular area or subject. It is used to describe someone who consistently displays quick thinking or problem-solving abilities.
  • too clever, quick, etc. by ˈhalf
  • as clever, stupid, etc. as they come "As clever, stupid, etc. as they come" means that a person exhibits a certain characteristic or quality to the highest degree possible. It can be used in a positive or negative context to emphasize how extreme or exceptional a person is in terms of a particular trait or behavior.
  • as artful (or clever) as a wagonload (or cartload) of monkeys This idiom is used to describe someone who is extremely clever or cunning. It suggests that the person possesses an exceptional level of cleverness or intelligence, likening them to a large group of monkeys who are known for their mischievous and clever behavior.
  • be as clever, stupid, etc. as they come This idiom means to be extremely clever, stupid, etc. in comparison to others. It suggests that the individual possesses the most extreme characteristics of a particular quality.

Similar spelling words for CLEVER

Plural form of CLEVER is CLEVERS

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