Definition of "wise" in English

adjective

1. Showing good judgement or the benefit of experience.

   • Storing extra food for the winter was a wise decision.
   • They were considered the wise old men of the administration.

2. (colloquial, ironic, sarcastic) Disrespectful.

   • Don't get wise with me!

3. (colloquial) Aware, informed (to something).

   • Be careful: the boss is wise to your plan to call out sick.

verb

1. To become wise.

2. (ergative, slang) Usually with "up", to inform or learn.

   • Mo wised him up about his situation.
   • After Mo had a word with him, he wised up.

noun

1. (archaic) Way, manner, or method.

verb

1. (dialectal) To instruct.

2. (dialectal) To advise; induce.

3. (dialectal) To show the way, guide.

4. (dialectal) To direct the course of, pilot.

5. (dialectal) To cause to turn.