callidus
[ˈkal.lɪ.dʊs]
The Latin word for smart is callidus.
In Latin, callidus describes someone who is clever and quick-witted. It carries a specific connotation of being experienced, skillful or even cunning, rather than just possessing abstract intelligence.
Meaning: exhibiting intellectual knowledge, such as that found in books (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word callidus literally means skillful, experienced or clever.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine form of the adjective is callida, the neuter form is callidum and the masculine plural form is callidī.
Did you know?
- The word callidus shares a root with callum, which means 'hard skin' or 'callus'. To the Romans, being 'smart' was conceptually linked to having a toughened skin from experience.
- In a Roman context, calling someone callidus could be a subtle insult, implying they are not just smart but dangerously 'crafty' or 'sly'.
- While callidus is used for 'smart', the Latin word sapiens specifically describes the kind of wisdom that comes from judging things correctly and living a virtuous life.
Examples in context
- Thomas callidus videtur.Tom seems smart.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use callidus with the verb 'to seem'.Tatoeba #6645988 by CarpeLanam, translation #3333913 by CK
- Maria prūdēns est, quae semper optima cōnsilia dēligit.Maria is smart, as she always chooses the best advice.
Example conversation
Gaius and Aurelia are discussing a difficult riddle.
- GaiusHoc aenigma difficile est.This riddle is difficult.
- AureliaSed tu callidus es, Gai.But you are smart, Gaius.
- GaiusGratias tibi ago, Aurelia.Thank you, Aurelia.
- AureliaNunc responde ei!Now answer it!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry callidus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries callidus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
