Meaning & Definition of word "Outwit"

Outwit

/aʊtˈwɪt/

1. To defeat or gain an advantage over someone by being more clever or crafty.
- Example: She managed to outwit her opponents in the debate by presenting unexpected arguments.
2. To outsmart someone; to trick someone.
- Example: He tried to outwit the puzzle by finding the patterns quickly.
3. To gain the upper hand through intelligence or strategy.
- Example: The detective was able to outwit the criminal by setting a clever trap.
4. To use one's wits to overcome difficulties or obstacles.
- Example: In order to escape from the room, he had to outwit the security system.
5. To cleverly avoid detection or capture.
- Example: The spy outwitted the guards and escaped the facility unnoticed.

●From 'out-' meaning 'beyond' + 'wit' meaning 'intellect, intelligence'.

outwit one's rivals:

to gain an advantage over competitors through cleverness.

outwit the system:

to cleverly navigate or circumvent rules or regulations.

wit:

the ability to make clever and quick remarks.

intelligence:

the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.

cunning:

having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion.

Meaning: To hoodwink or bamboozle someone.

● Example Sentence: He totally outwitted his friends with that prank.

Meaning: Pull a fast one on someone.

● Example Sentence: She outwitted her boss by finishing the project ahead of time.