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
Kendra CherryWe 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
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
Karla L. Millercalled also emotional quotient
Examples of emotional intelligence in a Sentence
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Addressing this growing gap will require a shift in how organizations approach leadership development— prioritizing emotional intelligence, supporting mental health and adapting to new work structures.
—Gyre Renwick, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025
Parker, who is also a leadership and life coach, shares these moments online not just for laughs, but to model emotional intelligence in parenting.
—Ashley Vega, People.com, 7 May 2025
According to Fast Company, distinctly human capabilities such as emotional intelligence, empathy, and cross-functional collaboration are among the most future-proof skills in the workforce.
—William Jones, USA Today, 3 May 2025
What to Buy Trending Deals & Products MESH toys teach emotional intelligence and give kids a healthy way to express their feelings.
—Anja Webb, Parents, 30 Apr. 2025
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Gyre Renwick, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025
Parker, who is also a leadership and life coach, shares these moments online not just for laughs, but to model emotional intelligence in parenting.
—Ashley Vega, People.com, 7 May 2025
According to Fast Company, distinctly human capabilities such as emotional intelligence, empathy, and cross-functional collaboration are among the most future-proof skills in the workforce.
—William Jones, USA Today, 3 May 2025
What to Buy Trending Deals & Products MESH toys teach emotional intelligence and give kids a healthy way to express their feelings.
—Anja Webb, Parents, 30 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for emotional intelligence
Cite this Entry
“Emotional intelligence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emotional%20intelligence. Accessed 21 May. 2025.
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