Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Clever

Clever , adjective

[Origin uncertain. Compare Old English cliver eager, Anglo-Saxon clyfer (in comp.) cloven; or clifer a claw, perh. connected with English cleave to divide, split, the meaning of English 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
5.
Good-natured; obliging. [United States]