Clev"er (?), a. [Origin uncertain. Cf. OE.
cliver eager, AS.
clyfer (in comp.) cloven; or clifer a claw, perh. connected with E. cleave to divide, split, the meaning of E. clever perh. coming from the idea
of grasping, seizing (with the mind).]
1.
Possessing quickness of
intellect, skill, dexterity, talent, or adroitness; expert.
Though there were many clever men in England during the latter half of the seventeenth century, there were only two great creative minds.
Macaulay.
Be good, sweet maid, and let
who will be
clever.
C.
Kingsley.
2. Showing skill or adroitness in the doer or former; as,
a clever speech; a clever trick.
Byron.
3. Having
fitness, propriety, or suitableness.
"T would sound
more clever
To me and to my heirs forever.
Swift.
4.
Well-shaped; handsome. "The girl was a tight, clever wench as any
was." Arbuthnot.
5.
Good-natured; obliging. [U. S.]
Syn. -- See Smart.
Hear it pronounced