Adroit means skillful and clever, especially at handling tricky situations or performing difficult tasks. An adroit chef can flip an omelet perfectly in the air without breaking it. An adroit soccer player dribbles past defenders with quick, precise footwork that makes it look easy.

The word often describes someone who combines physical skill with smart thinking. An adroit negotiator knows exactly what to say to help two arguing friends find common ground. An adroit student might cleverly handle a difficult question from a teacher by giving an answer that's technically correct while steering the conversation in a safer direction.

You can be adroit with your hands, like a pianist playing a complicated piece, or adroit with words and ideas, like a debater who responds smoothly to unexpected challenges. The word suggests nimbleness and quick thinking that makes you effective even when things get complicated. When someone handles a difficult situation with grace and skill, leaving everyone impressed, that's being adroit.