well-spoken

[ wel-spoh-kuhn ]

adjective

1. speaking well, fittingly, or pleasingly:

   The new chairwoman was very well-spoken.

2. polite in speech:

   a well-spoken gentleman.

3. spoken in an apt, fitting, or pleasing manner:

   a few well-spoken words on civic pride.

well-spoken

adjective

1. having a clear, articulate, and socially acceptable accent and way of speaking
2. spoken satisfactorily or pleasingly

Word History and Origins

Origin of well-spoken¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50

Example Sentences

She seemed in those photographs, and in interviews such as the one she gave Rachel Maddow, to be self-assured and well-spoken and as it’s often said, “together.”

From Salon

Hearing her speak in this way gives me a glimpse of a toughness that belies her well-spoken, gentle demeanour.

From BBC

"You just saw Joe Fields, that kid's going to go far. He's got the package - he's got that spark, he's humble, respectful, well-spoken," added Boylan.

From BBC

"Given disparaging references others have made to Cohen, I am sure the jury is surprised by the sober, well-spoken, candid individual they are meeting," he said.

From BBC

The annual invite-only luncheon honored 10 films and 10 television shows with well-spoken words about each celebrated project followed by a brief clip of a scene.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• affable
• attentive
• civil
• civilized
• considerate
• courtly
• gracious
• polite
• respectful
• soft-spoken
• thoughtful
• well-behaved
• well-mannered