the organs of thought and neural control; intelligence
from Old English 'brægen', related to Greek 'brechmos' meaning front of the head
Whether you're the 'brains of the operation' or just trying to 'pick someone's brain,' this organ dominates our metaphors for intelligence!
Phrenology and early neuroscience falsely claimed women's smaller average brain size implied intellectual inferiority. Medical establishment used this to deny women education and voting rights through the 19th-20th centuries.
Use 'intelligence', 'cognitive ability', or 'mind' when attributing capability. 'Brain' is fine anatomically.
["intelligence","cognitive ability","intellect","mind"]
Women like Émilie du Châtelet, Florence Nightingale, and Maria Gaetana Agnesi made foundational intellectual contributions despite being excluded from formal scientific institutions.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.