talented

American  

[tal-uhn-tid] / ˈtæl ən tɪd /

adjective

1. having talent or special ability; gifted.

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Other Word Forms

• multitalented adjective
• nontalented adjective
• untalented adjective

Etymology

Origin of talented

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English: “inclined, disposed”; talent + -ed ³

Explanation

If you're really good at something, you're talented. Both a professional violinist and an amateur singer with a beautiful voice can be called talented musicians. Talented wordsmiths will know that some other ways to say talented include proficient, adept and skilled. This adjective comes from the noun talent, which talented etymologists have traced back to the Greek root talanton, "balance, weight, or sum of money."

Example Sentences

The individuals who survive and flourish in such a system are sycophants and mediocrities, and those who have learned to navigate the Great Leader’s moods are far from the most qualified, talented or honorable.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

There’s also a family restaurant that’s struggling and could really use the help of a talented would-be chef obsessed with Italian cuisine.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Growing up in Fort Worth, where many of her friends knew her as Cindy, Cynthia Renee Gandy was a talented athlete who was popular with her classmates.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

Though Guardiola has said Cherki is one of the most talented players he has worked with, some of the silky skills from the 22-year-old have not always gone down well.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

A devoted and talented writer with an eye for detail, her secret diary, which she began at fourteen, detailed her observations and encounters with the political, military, and diplomatic elite.

From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson

Related Words

• accomplished
• adept
• brilliant
• capable
• intelligent
• proficient
• skilled
• smart