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

Related Words

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