adjective

cognitive

KAHG-nuh-tiv/ˈkɑːɡnətɪv/

Relating to the mental processes of gaining and using knowledge.

Solving the pattern puzzle requires cognitive skills such as comparison and reasoning.

A young adult carefully solves a geometric pattern puzzle, comparing candidate tiles against the missing final position in a visible sequence.

Etymology

coLatintogether, with

+gnitLatinto know

+iveLatinpertaining to

The ‘know’ root forms a verb meaning ‘get to know’ or ‘recognize’; the adjective ending makes it ‘pertaining to knowing.’ This connects cognitive with mental activities such as learning, remembering, and understanding.

In context

TheFriendsoftheSemel10:03

hear that and then I tried to explain what these turns actually mean so dementia is a cognitive loss it can be a memory loss or impaired thinking

Open Mind Event "The Small Guide to Alzheimer's disease" with Dr. Gary Small

More examples

The test measures cognitive abilities such as memory and attention.
A lack of sleep can affect your cognitive performance.
Cognitive development helps children understand the world around them.

Forms

cognitive

cognition noun — Mental processes of learning, thinking, and remembering.

cognitively adverb — In ways involving thought and understanding.

Similar words

mental: Broader; relates to the mind, including emotions and psychological health.
intellectual: Emphasizes reasoning and understanding, especially with complex or abstract ideas.