Clever, a.
Etymology: [Origin uncertain. Cf. OE. cliver eager, AS. clyfer (in comp.) cloven; or clifer a claw, perh. connected with E. cleave to divide, split, the meaning of E. clever perh. coming from the idea of grasping, seizing (with the mind).]
1. Possessing quickness of intellect, skill, dexterity, talent, or adroitness; expert. Though there were many clever men in England during the latter half of the seventeenth century, there were only two great creative minds. Macaulay. Be good, sweet maid, and let who will be clever. C. Kingsley.
2. Showing skill or adroitness in the doer or former; as, a clever speech; a clever trick. Byron.
3. Having fitness, propriety, or suitableness. "T would sound more clever To me and to my heirs forever. Swift.
4. Well-shaped; handsome. "The girl was a tight, clever wench as any was." Arbuthnot.
2 more senses
5. Good-natured; obliging. [U. S.]
Syn. -- See Smart.
Shades of meaning
Clever, as used in England, especially implies an aptitude for study or learning, and for excellent tho not preeminent mental achievement. The early New England usage as implying simple and weak good nature has largely affected the use of the word throughout the United States, where it has never been much in favor. Smart, indicating dashing ability, is now coming to have a suggestion of unscrupulousness, similar to that of the word sharp, which makes its use a doubtful compliment. The discriminating use of such words as able, gifted, talented, etc., is greatly preferable to an excessive use of the word clever. Compare acumen; astute; power.