nous

[noos, nous]

noun

1. Greek Philosophy.,  mind or intellect.

2. Philosophy.,  (inNeoplatonism ) the first and purest emanation of the One, regarded as the self-contemplating order of the universe.

nous

/ naʊs /

noun

1. metaphysics mind or reason, esp when regarded as the principle governing all things

2. slang,  common sense; intelligence

Word History and Origins

Origin of nous¹

First recorded in 1670–80; from Greek noûs, contracted variant of nóos “mind”

Word History and Origins

Origin of nous¹

C17: from Greek, literally: mind

Example Sentences

Capsey was furious to throw her wicket away, chipping to mid-off having already been dropped on 28, but it was another stroke of tactical nous from Wolvaardt which put the nail in the coffin.

Read more on BBC

She hit the ground running, adding a creative nous and cutting edge to an already strong squad.

Read more on BBC

And that experience and nous will be needed to deal with some of the feistiest fans in American sport and home players desperate to regain the trophy.

Read more on BBC

She hit the ground running and added a creative nous and cutting edge to an already strong frontline.

Read more on BBC

With his experience as a trade commissioner, an impressive spider's web of contacts, and respected political nous, Mandelson was soon determined to be an excellent potential fit.

Read more on BBC