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UK [ˈklevə(r)] / US [ˈklevər] adjective
Word forms "clever":
adjective clever comparative cleverer superlative cleverest

1) good at learning or understanding things

Tony was a charming and clever man.

I'd like to be a doctor but I'm not clever enough.

a clever boy/girl:

What a clever boy you are!

a) good at achieving what you want, especially by using unusual or slightly dishonest methods

She had a clever lawyer, and was never punished for the murder.

b) good at doing something

clever at doing something:

He's clever at concealing his feelings about her.

clever with:

To be a carpenter you've got to be clever with your hands (= good at making things).

2)

a) a clever idea or action is unusual but effective and intelligent

It was a clever idea to sell the boat.

The clever use of colour can make fine hair look thick.

Using the Welsh name was a clever marketing ploy.

b) a clever tool, machine, or invention is unusual but good and effective

This is a very clever piece of software.

3) British informal saying annoying or offensive things to make yourself look better than someone

clever with:

Don't try and get clever with me.

4) British spoken humorous used for saying that what someone has done is stupid

"I left the door unlocked all night." "That was clever."

•

not feel/look too clever — British

informal to feel or look ill

- too clever by half

See:

good II

Derived words:
cleverly
UK / US adverb
cleverness
noun uncountable