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Showing results for deftness. Search instead for deftnesses.
Synonyms

deftness

American  
[deft-nis] / ˈdɛft nɪs /

noun

  1. cleverness or skill in using either the body or mind; dexterity or nimbleness.

    He was a highly skilled artisan who used his tools with the deftness and certainty of genius.


Etymology

Origin of deftness

deft ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )


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.

See Examples For:

Throughout his tenure, Greenspan displayed the deftness, nimbleness, and flexibility that earned him the moniker “Maestro.”

From Barron's ● Jun. 26, 2026

Lowry’s juggling of staff loyalty, curatorial independence and board direction required a deftness of touch and grace.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 12, 2026

Samson's deftness to use the crease to arrow square drives through backward point were particularly eye-catching.

From BBC ● Mar. 1, 2026

Emecheta, with immense deftness and subtlety, provides a haunting and forceful attack on patriarchy, sexism and misogyny in Nigeria, and indicates how they taint and limit a nation.

From New York Times ● Feb. 7, 2024

Will marveled at the deftness in those huge black hooks.

From "The Amber Spyglass" by Philip Pullman

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