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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

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.