silver-tongued
Americanadjective
adjective
Etymology
Origin of silver-tongued
First recorded in 1585–95; silver ( def. ) + tongue ( def. ) + -ed 3 ( def. )
Explanation
A silver-tongued individual has a special talent for using words effectively, often enchanting listeners with their smooth and convincing speech. The phrase silver-tongued comes from the idea that a person’s words are as valuable and appealing as silver. Whether they are giving a speech, telling a story, or negotiating, a silver-tongued person can easily sway opinions and capture attention. Historically, such eloquence has been highly prized in leaders, poets, and orators, as it enables them to inspire and influence others.
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.
Edwards’s most effective attorney is the silver-tongued Camille Gravel, a longtime political fixer without a law degree.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 23, 2026
The leader of the band is a silver-tongued fellow named Edgin Darvis played with great good cheer by Chris Pine.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 28, 2023
Where Mr. McInnes, a Canadian of Scottish descent, was abrasive and aggressive, Mr. Tarrio, a Miami resident of Afro-Cuban heritage, is more silver-tongued and affable.
From New York Times ● Jan. 13, 2023
The large supporting cast are largely forgettable, save the aforementioned Brody and the fabulous Oyelowo, because they get the best dialogue and deliver it smoothly, like silver-tongued salesmen.
From Salon ● Sep. 16, 2022
The city tried to paint him as a silver-tongued outsider who never rode the bus in Montgomery himself but knew just how to make everyone who did feel unhappy.
From "Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice" by Phillip Hoose
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.
