outwit

UK: /ˌaʊtˈwɪt/ | US: /ˌaʊtˈwɪt/

Definition

  1. vt. to defeat or deceive someone by being cleverer or more cunning

Structure
out <beyond, surpassing>wit <intelligence, cleverness>
Etymology

The word "outwit" combines "out" (Old English ūt, meaning "beyond" or "externally") and "wit" (Old English witt, meaning "knowledge" or "cleverness"). It emerged in the early 17th century, originally meaning "to surpass in intelligence or cunning." The term reflects the competitive aspect of wit—outsmarting an opponent by superior mental agility.

Examples

  1. The detective outwitted the criminal by setting a clever trap.

  2. She managed to outwit her rivals in the chess tournament.

  3. The fox outwitted the hunters by doubling back on its trail.

  4. His plan to outwit the security system failed miserably.

  5. In the story, the hero uses his quick thinking to outwit the villain.