the keen perception and cleverly apt expression of those connections between ideas that awaken amusement and pleasure.

speech or writing showing such perception and expression.

a person having or noted for such perception and expression.

understanding, intelligence, or sagacity; astuteness.

Usually, wits.

powers of intelligent observation, keen perception, ingenious contrivance, or the like; mental acuity, composure, and resourcefulness

using one's wits to get ahead.

mental faculties; senses

to lose one's wits.

at one's wit's end. end 1 ( def. 33 ) .

keep or have one's wits about one

to remain alert and observant; be prepared for or equal to anything

to keep your wits about you in a crisis.

live by one's wits

to provide for oneself by employing ingenuity or cunning; live precariously

We traveled around the world, living by our wits.