In the contemporary context, the concept of wit is clearly related to the funny, or to having a sense of humor, but wittiness is not synonymous with either. Wit involves a quickness or acumen with words; but is also clearly distinct from the facility with words demonstrated in poetry. In light of this complexity, this contribution has three aims. First, to discuss the relationship between wit and humor, focusing on the eighteenth century as an important period that informs our contemporary understanding of both concepts. Second, to characterize historical philosophical discussions of the nature and value of wit. In particular, I identify two broad themes in this history: (i) discussion of wit as a virtue, and (ii) discussion of wit as a pleasant, playful mental process. Third, to pose directions for future scholarship suggested by this survey, including the need for increased philosophical attention to the nature of ingenuity.