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

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

England, used to bulging crowds, were simply too physical, too skilful, and had far too much nous.

From BBC ● Apr. 18, 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

“Um, nous étions…” Abby smiles up at Madame Blanc, and then waits for her to move out of earshot.

From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli