Definition of "intelligence" in English

noun

1. (chiefly uncountable) The capacity of mind, especially to understand principles, truths, facts or meanings, acquire knowledge, and apply it to practice; the ability to comprehend and learn; the ability to process sentient experience to generate true beliefs with a justified degree of confidence.

   • ...the test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.

2. (chiefly uncountable) The quality of making use or having made use of such capacities: depth of understanding, mental quickness.

3. (countable) An entity that has such capacities.

4. (chiefly uncountable) Information, often secret, about an enemy or about hostile activities.

5. (countable) A political or military department, agency or unit designed to gather information, usually secret, about the enemy or about hostile activities.

6. (dated) Acquaintance; intercourse; familiarity.