What does SAVVY mean?

Parts of Speech

Savvy is a verb and an adjective.

Definitions

As a verb, savvy means to understand or comprehend something. As an adjective, it means having practical knowledge or understanding.

Pronunciations

US: /ˈsævi/

UK: /ˈsævi/

Origin and Usage

The word savvy originated from the Spanish word "sabe," which means "he knows." It was first used in English in the 18th century by sailors to mean "knowledgeable about the sea." Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include knowledge or understanding in general.

Synonyms

As a verb: understand, comprehend, grasp, get, perceive.

As an adjective: knowledgeable, aware, experienced, informed, shrewd.

Related Words

As a verb: grasp, learn, study, think.

As an adjective: astute, smart, wise, witty.

Example Sentences

As a verb: She savvyed the intricacies of the new software in no time.

As an adjective: Hes a savvy businessman who knows how to make a profit.