“Streetwise” (also spelled “street-wise”) means being smart, practical, and aware of how to handle real-life situations, especially in tough or urban environments. A streetwise person knows how to stay safe, avoid trouble, and make good decisions in everyday life, particularly on the streets or in challenging social settings.
Examples:
- She’s streetwise and knows how to avoid scams.
- Growing up in the city made him streetwise from a young age.
It’s more about practical intelligence than book smarts—knowing how the world really works.