emotional intelligence

[ ih-moh-shuh-nl in-tel-i-juhns ]

noun

, Psychology.

1. skill in perceiving, understanding, and managing emotions and feelings. : EI

emotional intelligence

noun

1. awareness of one's own emotions and moods and those of others, esp in managing people

Word History and Origins

Origin of emotional intelligence¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

Children whose parents are glued to a screen can show lower emotional intelligence, according to one study.

From Slate

Children pick up emotional intelligence from watching those around them.

From Slate

“And then also it’s emotional intelligence, right? So if you can’t laugh at the same thing, I just don’t think you’re speaking the same language.”

From Los Angeles Times

Such self-regulation is a sign of emotional intelligence, according to Cytowic, and a way of responding to stress rather than letting it control your behavior.

From Los Angeles Times

“There’s a realization that it’s not a weakness, it’s a superpower, and emotional intelligence is sexy.”

From Los Angeles Times