Possibly from Old English 'clifer' (claw/hand), shifting from physical dexterity to mental sharpness over centuries.
Quick to understand, learn, and devise ideas; mentally sharp.
Possibly from East Anglian dialect, perhaps related to Old English 'clifer' meaning 'claw, hand' (one who is 'handy' or dexterous). The shift from physical dexterity to mental agility mirrors 'adroit' (from French for right-handed). Key roots: clifer (Old English: "claw, hand (possibly)").