English Dictionary
Definition of “deft”
deft (dɛft
)
Definitions
adjective
- quick and neat in movement; nimble; dexterous
Alternative Forms
ˈdeftly adverb ˈdeftness noun Word Origin
C13 (in the sense: gentle): see daft
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
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skilful,
able,
expert,
clever,
neat,
handy,
adept,
nimble,
proficient,
agile,
adroit,
dexterous,
Usage examples
He removed the foil and wire basket in a succession of deft movements, then expertly applied his thumbs to the cork.
Terman, Douglas, Cormorant (1994)A harmonious blend of deft moves, silambam is a defence skill now, a dance the next.
India Today (2002)He has proved there are few local actors so deft at blurring the boundaries between hero and villain.
Courier, Sunday Mail (2004)Ginola, however, was rarely out of the action, continuing to tease and torment with a series of deft flicks and feints.
Sun, News of the World (2001)A warm & kind-hearted man, with humour and such an extraordinary gift for the delicate & the deft touch in comedy.
Williams Kenneth & Davies, Russell (ed.), The Kenneth Williams Diaries (1994)
