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.
The exorbitant cost of buying a well-bred racehorse is not for the faint of wallet.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2025
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
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
His well-bred clothes had disappeared; these days he wore khaki pants supported by a garrison belt, and boots which rattled when he walked.
From "A Separate Peace" by John Knowles
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.
