In-tël'li-gence1, n.
n. [Lat. intelligentia, Fr. intelligence, Pr. & Pg. inteligencia, Sp. inteligencia, It. intelligenzia, intelligenza.]
- The act of knowing; the exercise of the understanding.
- The capacity to know, understand, or comprehend; the intellect as a gift or endowment.
- The capacity for the higher functions of the intellect; the pure intellect.
- Notice; information communicated; an account of things distant or before unknown.
Intelligence is given where you are hid. Shak.
- Knowledge imparted or acquired, whether by study, research, or experience; general information; as, to be a person of intelligence requires observation and reflection.
- An intelligent being or spirit; — generally applied to pure spirits; as, a created intelligence.
The great intelligences fair That range above our mortal state, In circle round the blessed gate, Received and gave him welcome there. Tennyson. Intelligence office, an office or place where information may be obtained, particularly respecting servants to be hired. Syn.—Understanding; intellect; instruction; advice; notice; notification; news.