Wisdom
'wɪzdəm
Definitions
The ability to use your knowledge and experience to make good decisions and judgments.
'wɪzdəm
The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the ability to make sound judgments and decisions.
Her wisdom was evident in her calm and thoughtful approach to difficult situations.
💡 Simply: Wisdom is like having a superpower that helps you make smart choices. It comes from learning and experiencing things in life, kind of like when you learn not to touch a hot stove.
👶 For kids: Wisdom is knowing the right thing to do, like a superpower for your brain that helps you make smart choices.
More Examples
He gained wisdom from his years of travel and exposure to different cultures.
The council's decisions were guided by the wisdom of its senior members.
How It's Used
"Philosophers seek wisdom through contemplation and study."
"Grandmothers are often looked to for their wisdom."
"The protagonist gains wisdom through their life experiences."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Age before beauty
A polite expression used when giving priority or preference to older people.
"We let the older guests go through the buffet first, age before beauty."
Words of wisdom
Thoughtful and insightful advice or teachings.
"Her grandfather often shared words of wisdom that guided her throughout life."
From Old English *wīsdōm*, derived from *wīs* 'wise' and *-dōm* '-dom' (a suffix indicating state or condition). It has cognates in other Germanic languages, reflecting the deep-rooted importance of the concept.
The concept of wisdom has been central to philosophical and religious texts throughout history, from ancient Greek philosophers to the biblical Proverbs.
Memory tip
Think of the owl, often a symbol of wisdom – it sees everything.