English

Alternative forms

• keep one's wits about one

Verb

have one's wits about one

1. (idiomatic) To remain calm, composed, focused, or aware.
   • 1869, Anthony Trollope, Phineas Finn, ch. 3:

     He was confused, half elated, half disappointed, and had not his wits about him.

   • 1889, Horatio Alger, Luke Walton, ch. 10:

     Luke alone seemed to have his wits about him. He saw that there was not a moment to lose, and, gathering up his strength, dashed to the old lady's assistance.

   • 1908, Upton Sinclair, The Moneychangers, ch. 10:

     And if you think he won't have his wits about him, just you try to fool him on some deal, and see.