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

"He is going away from goal, but then has the nous to put it in the far corner, leaving the goalkeeper no chance at all."

From BBC • May 19, 2026

Does increased athleticism and tactical nous risk losing the distinctive character of the women's game?

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

But 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 transition.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

England had mustered only 128 for nine but showcased their depth and nous, defending a total that looked well below par on a surface offering turn and bounce.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

“Two stones are enough. II nous faut seulement la majorité.”

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver