Savant, n.; pl. Savants (F. .
Etymology: [F., fr. savoir to know, L. sapere. See Sage, a.]
A man of learning; one versed in literature or science; a person eminent for acquirements.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for savant; he lists it under scholar.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.