savvy

[ sav-ee ]

adjective

, sav·vi·er, sav·vi·est.

1. experienced, knowledgable, and well-informed; shrewd (often used in combination): a tech-savvy entrepreneur.

   consumers who are savvy about prices;

   a tech-savvy entrepreneur.

noun

1. Also savvi·ness. practical understanding; shrewdness or intelligence; common sense:

   a candidate who seemed to have no political savvy.

verb (used with or without object)

, sav·vied, sav·vy·ing.

1. to know; understand.

savvy

/ ˈsævɪ /

verb

1. to understand or get the sense of (an idea, etc)
2. no savvy
   I don't (he doesn't, etc) understand

noun

1. comprehension

adjective

1. shrewd; well-informed

Word History and Origins

Origin of savvy¹

First recorded in 1775–85; from Spanish sabe, 3rd-person singular present of saber “to know,” from Latin sapere “to be wise, taste”; sapient none

Word History and Origins

Origin of savvy¹

C18: corruption of Spanish sabe ( usted ) (you) know, from saber to know, from Latin sapere to be wise

Example Sentences

But TV is “alive,” a place where, over time, a savvy actor can wield influence on creators.

From Los Angeles Times

There was a real threat that the "savvy" take was that there is nothing we can do to fight back.

From Salon

Clearly, something about his savvy with deconstructing R&B vocals and evocative, just-at-the-edge-of-underground productions is still resonating with the industry more broadly.

From Los Angeles Times

It also highlights her brief time in prison and her successful pivot to rebrand herself as a savvy elder influencer who pals around with hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump and the savviest of his advisors understand that politics in this media environment is all about identity and story.

From Salon