acuity

UK: əˈkjuːɪti | US: əˈkjuːɪti

Definition

  1. n. sharpness or keenness of thought, vision, or hearing

Structure
acu <sharp>ity <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "acuity" derives from the Latin root acu- (meaning "sharp"), which also appears in words like "acute" and "acumen." The suffix -ity forms abstract nouns indicating a state or condition. Historically, acu- traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root h₂eḱ- ("sharp, pointed"), linking to tools, perception, and intellect. Over time, "acuity" evolved to specifically denote mental or sensory sharpness.

Examples

  1. Her visual acuity was tested during the eye exam.

  2. The surgeon’s manual acuity is critical for precise operations.

  3. Aging can reduce auditory acuity.

  4. His intellectual acuity impressed the debate judges.

  5. The device measures the acuity of color perception.