Intellect (noun)

1. The faculty of reasoning and understanding objectively, especially with regard to abstract or academic matters.
2. A person's mental abilities or powers of understanding.

Origin:

Late middle english (in the sense "power of understanding"): from latin intellectus, from intellegere "understand" (see intellect).

Examples:

1. His intellect was highly respected.
2. She had a sharp intellect.
3. His intellect was one of his greatest assets.
4. Her intellect was one of the main reasons for her success.
5. His intellect was put to the test during the interview.