shrewd
UK: ʃruːd | US: ʃruːd
adj. having sharp judgment; astute or perceptive
adj. marked by cleverness or cunning in practical matters
adj. (archaic) mischievous or malicious
shrewd = shrew<mischievous creature> + d<adjective suffix>
- shrew (from Old English scrēawa, meaning "a small, aggressive mammal" or metaphorically "a spiteful person")
- -d (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating a quality or state)
Etymology Origin:
The word "shrewd" originally referred to the negative traits of a shrew (a small, sharp-tempered animal), implying mischief or malice. Over time, it evolved to describe sharp-wittedness and cleverness, likely because the shrew's quick, aggressive nature was metaphorically linked to mental acuity. The suffix "-d" solidified its adjectival form, transitioning from literal animal behavior to abstract human traits.
She made a shrewd investment that doubled her profits.
His shrewd observations helped the team avoid costly mistakes.
The politician’s shrewd tactics won him the election.
In medieval tales, the fox was often portrayed as shrewd and cunning.
The lawyer’s shrewd questioning exposed the witness’s lies.