emotional intelligence

noun

: the ability to recognize, understand, and deal skillfully with one's own emotions and the emotions of others (as by regulating one's emotions or by showing empathy and good judgment in social interactions)

A large part of emotional intelligence is being able to think about and empathize with how other people are feeling. This often involves considering how you would respond if you were in the same situation.

—Kendra Cherry

We know that young children learn to identify, explain, and regulate their emotions, but we know much less about how children learn these things. They undoubtedly acquire some of their emotional intelligence from adults–—parents, teachers, and coaches, for example.

—Lawrence T. White

… thousands of workers during the "Great Resignation" discovered a new road map to success: being able to recognize and walk away from abusive situations. … Empathy, respectfulness and emotional intelligence are hallmarks of leaders for whom people enjoy working.

—Karla L. Miller

—abbreviation EI

called also emotional quotient

Examples of emotional intelligence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And then there’s emotional intelligence. —Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026

This Water sign is known for its magnetism, emotional intelligence and innate ability to uncover what’s hidden beneath the surface over time. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 21 Apr. 2026

What excites us most is that both have the kind of discipline, presence and emotional intelligence that is already translating seamlessly into film and television. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 21 Apr. 2026

But the reality is that as automation spreads, skills like critical thinking, communication and emotional intelligence become more valuable. —Catherine Thorbecke, Boston Herald, 18 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for emotional intelligence

• counterintelligence