Meaning & Definition of word "Streetwise"
Streetwise
/ˈstrētˌwīz/
adjective:
- 1. Having the experience and knowledge necessary to deal effectively with the challenges and dangers of urban life.
- Example: He may not have a formal education, but he's very streetwise and knows how to navigate the city.
- 2. Clever and able to deal with difficult situations, especially in an urban environment.
- Example: The streetwise girl quickly figured out how to avoid trouble in the bustling neighborhood.
- 3. Aware of the realities and dangers of street life, often possessing practical skills in survival in an urban setting.
- Example: Although she grew up in a safe suburb, her time in the city made her quite streetwise.
Etymology
●The word 'streetwise' combines 'street', referring to urban settings, and 'wise', indicating knowledge or understanding.
Common Phrases and Expressions
streetwise kid:
A child who is clever about how to survive or thrive in urban environments.
streetwise tactics:
Strategies that are effective in city living or urban challenges.
Related Words
savvy:
Shrewdness and practical knowledge.
shrewd:
Having sharp judgment, especially regarding social situations.
cunning:
Skill in achieving one's aims by deceit.
Slang Meanings of streetwise
Meaning: Street smarts
● Example Sentence: You need some street smarts to survive in this area.
Meaning: Urban savvy
● Example Sentence: His urban savvy got him out of some tricky situations.