clever

Definition

  • adjective: intelligent and able to learn things quickly
  • adjective: skillful or adroit in using the hands or body
  • often used in a joking or ironic way to describe a foolish idea, action, etc.
  • synonyms: nimble, smart, expert

Examples

  • Don't you start getting 'clever' [=('US') 'fresh'] with me! [=don't speak to me in a disrespectful way]

  • For someone who hasn't been 'feeling too clever' lately, he just played a great round of golf.

  • A few 'clever' [='smart, bright'] students have started a business recycling old computers.

Movie quotes

  • (..) - Really? - If one was so inclined. Tyler, you are by far the most interesting single-serving friend I have ever met. - Everything on a plane is single-serving... - Oh, I get it. Very clever. Thank you. How's it working out for you? - What? - Being clever? Great. (..)
    1999 Fight Club
  • (..) Like so many others, I had become a slave to the Ikea nesting instinct. Yes. I'd like to order the Erika Pekkari dust ruffles. - Please hold. - Anything clever, like a coffee table in the shape of a yin-yang, I had to have it. Or the Ohamshab sofa with the Strinne green stripe pattern. (..)
    1999 Fight Club