perspicacity

[ pur-spi-kas-i-tee ]

noun

1. keenness of mental perception and understanding; discernment; penetration.

   Synonyms: astuteness, shrewdness, acumen, insight, acuity

   Antonyms: obtuseness

2. Archaic. keen vision.

Word History and Origins

Origin of perspicacity¹

First recorded in 1540–50; earlier perspicacite, from Late Latin perspicācitās “sharpness of sight,” equivalent to perspicāci- (stem of perspicāx “sharp-sighted”; perspicuous ) + -tās -ty ²

Synonym Study

See perspicuity.

Example Sentences

Under his rough exterior Soult hid great powers of business, a keen perspicacity, and much tact.

From Project Gutenberg

His spirit is of a superhuman perspicacity; his mind is tenacious and full of all knowledge that man may have.

From Project Gutenberg

As the sequel showed, he clearly demonstrates his own perspicacity and knowledge of human nature.

From Project Gutenberg

Lynx-eyed perspicacity, inexhaustible contrivance, prompt ingenuity,—a man very dangerous to play with at games of skill.

From Project Gutenberg

He even asserted that those at the head of affairs in England had shown great perspicacity and a clear insight into the future.

From Project Gutenberg