clever, wise, sense of hearing

聰 is composed of 耳 (ear) and 悤 (haste, intelligent). 悤 is formed from a variant of 囪 (chimney, window) and 心 (heart), conveying the idea of a mind as clear and transparent as a window, already implying keen insight or intelligence. Additionally, a clear ear canal enhances hearing sensitivity, so 聰 also refers to acute hearing or sharpness of perception.