Wise: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'wise' comes from the Old English 'wis', which meant 'knowing' or 'sensible'.
• Related words like 'wit' (intelligence) and 'wisdom' (deep understanding) share the same roots, pointing to a long history of valuing knowledge.

Philosophy

• Philosophers like Socrates and Confucius emphasized the importance of wisdom as key to living a good life.
• In many philosophical traditions, wisdom is viewed not just as knowledge but also as understanding how to apply it for better living.

Cultural Representation

• In many cultures, the owl is a symbol of wisdom, often associated with learning and knowledge.
• Various proverbs and sayings underline the significance of wisdom, such as 'wisdom comes with age' and 'a wise man learns more from fools than a fool learns from the wise'.

Psychology

• Research shows that wisdom often involves a mix of cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, and moral reasoning.
• Studies suggest that older adults may have greater wisdom, as they are better at considering multiple perspectives and making balanced decisions.

Literature

• Many classic tales feature wise characters, such as Merlin in Arthurian legend, who is known for his profound knowledge and guidance.
• Quotes about wisdom are abundant in literature, with works by writers like Shakespeare often reflecting on its importance in human experience.

At position #2,422, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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