fluid intelligence

[ floo-id in-tel-i-juhns ]

noun

1. the capacity to think logically, identify patterns and relationships, and solve new problems, independent of one’s acquired knowledge: Compare crystallized intelligence ( def ).

   This role is full of unpredictable situations and requires a high level of fluid intelligence.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fluid intelligence¹

Coined in 1963 by British-American psychologist Raymond Bernard Cattell ( 1905–1998 )

Example Sentences

Fluid intelligence is all about raw processing speed: the agility with which you are able to solve new and unfamiliar problems.

From The Daily Beast