streetwise

Definition

Having the necessary knack, personality and instinct for survival in rough, urban environments.

Etymology

From street + -wise.

Example Sentences

• "Where's the streetwise Hercules / to fight the rising odds?"
• "You could tell from the way he spat old Tupac lyrics, loitering in the corner with his homies, flipping that Yankees cap on his head like he couldn't give a damn that he was streetwise enough to melt Will Smith."