Acumen
/əˈkjuː.mən/noun
The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, 'acumen' was often associated with keen intelligence, as sharpness was metaphorically linked to mental clarity and perception, much like a well-honed blade.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ak-
“To be sharp, to be pointed.”
Latin
Latin
acumen
“Sharpness, edge; a point.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
acumen
“Intellect, sharpness of mind.”
Middle English
Middle English
acumen
“Sharpness of thought or insight.”
Modern English
English
acumen
“Keen insight or discernment.”