well-bred

[ wel-bred ]

adjective

1. well brought up; properly trained and educated:

   a well-bred boy.

2. showing good breeding, as in behavior or manners.
3. (of animals) of a desirable breed or pedigree.

well-bred

adjective

1. Alsowell-born of respected or noble lineage
2. indicating good breeding

   well-bred manners

3. of good thoroughbred stock

   a well-bred spaniel

Word History and Origins

Origin of well-bred¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

Both produce some wines good enough to challenge the well-bred conceits of wine makers in Burgundy and Bordeaux.

From The Daily Beast

Some especially well-bred people among us might be noble enough in spirit and possessions to abstain from this temptation.

From The Daily Beast

As a well-bred Mormon with ties to Utah, Huntsman has inevitably drawn comparisons to former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney.

From The Daily Beast

She spoke calmly, with the pleasantly modulated voice of a well-bred Englishwoman.

From Project Gutenberg

Amongst well-bred persons, every conversation is considered in a measure confidential.

From Project Gutenberg

Baroudi was as totally devoid of ordinary scruples as the average well-bred Englishman is full of them.

From Project Gutenberg

Not a word, or even a glance, will a well-bred hostess bestow upon the servants, nor will she speak to the guests of the dishes.

From Project Gutenberg

Let me start with you upon your promenade, my friend, and I will soon decide your place upon the list of well-bred ladies.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• aristocratic
• patrician
• urbane
• well-mannered