knowing

[ noh-ing ]

adjective

1. affecting, implying, or deliberately revealing shrewd knowledge of secret or private information:

   a knowing glance.

   Synonyms: perceptive, eloquent, significant, meaningful

2. that knows; know; having knowledge or information; intelligent.
3. shrewd, sharp, or astute.
4. conscious; intentional; deliberate.

knowing

/ ˈnəʊɪŋ /

adjective

1. suggesting secret information or knowledge
2. wise, shrewd, or clever
3. deliberate; intentional

noun

1. there is no knowing
   one cannot tell

Derived Forms

• ˈknowingly, adverb
• ˈknowingness, noun

Other Words From

• knowing·ly adverb
• knowing·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of knowing¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English knawynge (earlier knowende, knawande ); equivalent to know ¹ + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Although both actors knew they were involved in something unusual, they had no way of knowing what “Nickel Boys” ultimately would look like or whether it would succeed or fail artistically and commercially.

From Los Angeles Times

He was superb with the ball but also captained expertly, changing his bowlers effectively and knowing when to attack and when to soak up pressure.

From BBC

Some encampment residents told the BBC they welcomed knowing they wouldn't be asked to leave at a moment's notice.

From BBC

The government has reiterated a pledge to make giving someone alcohol or drugs without them knowing or agreeing a specific criminal offence.

From BBC

Maybe not today, because we have better ways to fight disease, but knowing what was out there is essential.

From Salon

Related Words

• insightful
• intelligent
• perceptive
• sophisticated