Definition of SAVANT (original) (raw)
1
: a person of learning
especially : one with detailed knowledge in some specialized field (as of science or literature)
2
: a person affected with a [developmental disorder](/dictionary/developmental disorder) (such as autism or intellectual disability) who exhibits exceptional skill or brilliance in some limited field (such as mathematics or music)
Did you know?
Word-loving Homo sapiens will appreciate how much there is to know about savant. For one, savant comes ultimately from the Latin word sapere (“to be wise”) by way of Middle French, where savant is the present participle of savoir, meaning “to know.” Second, savant shares roots with the English words sapient (“possessing great wisdom”) and sage (“very wise”) (as well as Homo sapiens). Finally, the term is sometimes used to refer to a person who demonstrates extraordinary knowledge in a particular subject or has an extraordinary ability to perform a particular task (such as complex mathematics) but has more limited capacities in other areas.
Synonyms
Examples of savant in a Sentence
a savant in the field of medical ethics
Recent Examples on the Web Ambrose continues to toil away artistically, proving her relevance as a style savant. —
Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 6 Sep. 2024 Reynolds, a marketing savant, and Lively hoped the two very different films would indeed result in a Barbenheimer moment whereby both films become top of mind. —Pamela McClintock, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Aug. 2024 As therapist Sean Maguire, Williams was tasked with breaking down the psychological walls erected by Damon's math savant Will Hunting. —Marco Della Cava, USA TODAY, 7 Aug. 2024 For any shopping _savant_—including every Vogue editor—the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale counts as an official summer holiday. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 1 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for savant 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'savant.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
French, from Middle French, from present participle of savoir to know, from Latin sapere to be wise — more at sage
First Known Use
1719, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of savant was in 1719
Dictionary Entries Near savant
Cite this Entry
“Savant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/savant. Accessed 19 Sep. 2024.
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Last Updated: 11 Sep 2024 - Updated example sentences
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