Beaux-esprits


plural of bel-esprit.
a person of great wit or intellect.
Historical Examples

The fourth or Byzantine style of epigrammatic composition was cultivated by the beaux-esprits of the court of Justinian.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Slice 2 Various

Another source of torment to me not less considerable was that of the beaux-esprits of the Ulemas of the city of Khiva.
Travels in Central Asia Arminius Vmbry

I perceive here will be a wit-combat between these beaux-esprits.
Three Hours after Marriage John Gay

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