well-bred
Americanadjective
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well brought up; properly trained and educated.
a well-bred boy.
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showing good breeding, as in behavior or manners.
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(of animals) of a desirable breed or pedigree.
adjective
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Also: well-born. of respected or noble lineage
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indicating good breeding
well-bred manners
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of good thoroughbred stock
a well-bred spaniel
Etymology
Origin of well-bred
First recorded in 1590–1600
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In one fell swoop, the well-bred cow showcased Brazil's prowess in the business of modern cattle ranching.
From National Geographic • Jan. 24, 2024
She added: "The public has the choice, choose healthy, well-bred dogs or choose this kind of exaggerated mutant. I wouldn't buy any of these dogs. I feel really sorry for them."
From BBC • Jan. 23, 2023
“She’s a filly that’s really well-bred for this race. I think she’s got the right kind of disposition for it, and she’s given us every indication that she’s doing really well.”
From Seattle Times • Jun. 7, 2022
The well-bred son of Hard Spun had fetched $250,000 at the 2018 Keeneland Sale and competed against some horses headed for the Kentucky Derby.
From New York Times • Sep. 3, 2020
Perfume bottles—empty many years—because well-bred families always gave the governess perfume for Christmas.
From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
