an exceptional natural capacity of intellect, especially as shown in creative and original work in science, art, music, etc.

the genius of Mozart.

a person having such capacity.

a person having an extraordinarily high intelligence rating on a psychological test, as an IQ above 140.

natural ability or capacity; strong inclination

a special genius for leadership.

distinctive character or spirit, as of a nation, period, or language.

the guardian spirit of a place, institution, etc.

either of two mutually opposed spirits, one good and the other evil, supposed to attend a person throughout life.

a person who strongly influences for good or ill the character, conduct, or destiny of a person, place, or thing

Rasputin, the evil genius of Russian politics.

genie ( defs. 1, 3 ) .

noun

idiot , imbecile

noun

ability , accomplishment , acumen , acuteness , adept , aptitude , aptness , astuteness , bent , brain , brilliance , capability , capacity , creativity , discernment , einstein , endowment , expert , faculty , flair , grasp , head , imagination , inclination , ingenuity , inspiration , intelligence , inventiveness , knack , mature , originality , percipience , perspicacity , power , precocity , prodigy , propensity , prowess , reach , sagacity , superability , talent , turn , understanding , virtuoso , wisdom , brilliancy , gift , instinct , disposition , genius loci , insight , intellect , mastermind , whiz , wizard