Keen

/kiːn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a loud wailing sound, often associated with mourning.

The mourners sang a keen as they paid their last respects.

adjective

having a sharp edge; intellectually sharp; perceptive.

She has a keen mind for solving complex problems.

showing eagerness or enthusiasm.

He is keen to start his new job and make a difference.

very sensitive or sharp in perception.

The dog's keen sense of smell helped locate the missing child.

intense or strong.

She felt a keen sense of loss after moving away from her hometown.

Middle English, from Old English cene meaning 'brave, bold, or sharp'.

keen eye

An ability to notice or understand things quickly and accurately.

keen sense

A strong or sharpened sense, such as sight or hearing.

keen interest

A strong enthusiasm or eagerness for something.

sharp

Having an edge or point that is able to cut.

eager

Showing keen interest or intense longing.

enthusiastic

Having or showing great excitement and interest.

Very interested or enthusiastic.

I'm really keen on going to the concert tonight!

Intellectually sharp.

He's a keen thinker when it comes to solving problems.