outwit

[out-wit]

verb (used with object)

outwitted, outwitting 

1. to get the better of by superior ingenuity or cleverness; outsmart.

   to outwit a dangerous opponent.

   Synonyms: finesse, outthink, outmaneuver, outfox, outguess

2. Archaic.,  to surpass in wisdom or knowledge.

outwit

/ ˌaʊtˈwɪt /

verb

1. to get the better of by cunning or ingenuity

2. archaic,  to be of greater intelligence than

Word History and Origins

Origin of outwit¹

First recorded in 1645–55; out- + wit ¹

Example Sentences

From the “Ocean’s” franchise to “The Italian Job” to France’s own Netflix drama “Lupin,” the charming thief wins our hearts, outwits the system and vanishes into the night.

Read more on Salon

She favors installing parental controls, even though wily children can outwit them, on grounds that some thwarting is better than none at all.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

There were corridos about the exploits of bandits and outlaws, some of them Robin Hood-esque characters who outwitted oafish authorities and helped the poor.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Spy Brunch found inspiration in the era of ’60s protest music in its “Ursa Major and the Blue Mountain Hexes,” turning audience members into makeshift musicians in its mischievous show about outwitting a government agent.

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Liz is a compelling creation, at once smart, sassy and wily, and there is fun to be had watching her slickly outwit credulous individuals.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• deceive 
• outfox 
• outmaneuver