acumen
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
- acuminous adjective
- unacuminous adjective
Etymology
Origin of acumen
First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin acūmen “sharpness,” from acū-, stem of acuere “to sharpen” ( see acute) + -men, noun suffix
Explanation
If you have acumen, you are very sharp at what you do. You hope your accountant and your surgeon are both known for their acumen. The noun acumen comes from the Latin word acumen, meaning “a point,” or “sting.” If you are able to make pointed decisions, if you have a sharp intellect, if you make good strategic moves, if you are successful in your field, or if your business instincts are spot-on, you have acumen. Even if you inherit an entire wholesale furniture dynasty from your grandfather, you could end up with nothing if you don’t have his business acumen.
Vocabulary lists containing acumen
100 Words Every High School Graduate Should Know
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300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words
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GRE Verbal Reasoning, List 1
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
With his tactical acumen and leadership skills, he could have a great managerial career - whether that involves building a legacy in Germany or moving back to England.
From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026
Board members were impressed with his business acumen, charisma and his deep love for Disney and its storied history.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026
It bursts with insights that mix journalistic acumen with gossip, backed by a score generously seasoned with mischievous violin string plucking.
From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026
What amazes Downing more, however, is his offensive acumen.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 4, 2026
In court that day, Judge Rumpff gave an emotional eulogy to Pirow, and praised his legal acumen and thoroughness.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
