nous

American  

[noos, nous] / nus, naʊs /

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.

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nous British  

/ naʊs /

noun

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

2. slang common sense; intelligence

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Etymology

Origin of nous

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

Explanation

In philosophy, nous is the mind's ability to clearly understand what is true. You might think of nous as reason or intellect. The exact definition of nous varies, depending on whether you're talking to a philosopher, historian, or religious thinker. In Christianity, the nous is the mind, as distinguished from the soul. You can also think of this as the distinction between thinking and feeling. Classic philosophy defines nous as the part of a person's mind that allows them to think rationally and understand. During the 18th century, nous was briefly popular as college slang for "wit or cleverness."

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

nous

Paired with the injury to James, England needed an extra dimension and Bellingham's tactical nous and versatility came in clutch.

From BBC ● Jun. 28, 2026

The 24-time major champion rolled back the years, showing how he still has the nous and heart to beat anybody.

From BBC ● May 23, 2026

Lennon has proved his managerial nous plenty of times already this season, but he must down his mentor if he is to make history with Dunfermline.

From BBC ● May 22, 2026

But reigning world champion Cardona Coll showed all his experience to fight back and surge into the lead in an astonishing display of stamina and technical nous on the opening transition.

From Barron's ● Feb. 19, 2026

It grew dark, the approaching night—langui- nous, honey-mellow, luminous—gleamed with a seraphic effulgence.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols