ingenious

/in-ˈjēn-yəs/

Middle English ingenyous, from Middle French ingenieus, from Latin ingeniosus, from ingenium natural capacity

adjective

  1. having or showing an unusual aptitude for discovering, inventing, or contriving

  2. marked by originality, resourcefulness, and cleverness in conception or execution

  3. showing or calling for intelligence, aptitude, or discernment

an ingenious detective

clever adroit cunning ingenious mean having or showing practical wit or skill in contriving. clever stresses physical or mental quickness, deftness, or great aptitude. adroit often implies a skillful use of expedients to achieve one's purpose in spite of difficulties.