expert

Pronunciation key ( ek′spẽrt ) ( ik-spũrt′ )

ex•pert

adj.

[ME.; OFr.; L. expertus pp. of experiri to try, see EXPERIENCE].

1. Skillful; having extensive training and knowledge in a special field.
2. Of or from an expert, such as "An expert opinion."

n.

1. A person who demonstrates a high degree of training, skill, knowledge and dexterity due to training and experience in a special field.
• Military. The highest grade possible which can be achieved in marksmanship.
  • Rifleman; the highest of three ratings of proficiency. See sharpshooter, marksman.
  • A soldier who has achieved this rating.

—ex′pert′ly adv. —ex′pert′ness n.

References

Webster's New World Dictionary of the American Language (College Edition) ©1955

The American Heritage Dictionary, Second College Edition ©1985