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
There’s concern that “we’re losing the battle with education and just promoting a well-bred dog,” Sosa said.
From Seattle Times ● May 7, 2023
This booming, endlessly interesting antihero comports himself as an entitled, well-bred gentleman who has tired of wearing dirty long johns and waiting for the universe to right his fortunes.
From New York Times ● Mar. 13, 2023
Whereas both Haydn and Mozart aimed to reveal human emotions through the filter of a gentlemanly, well-bred composure, the funeral march in Eroica is remarkable for the unflinching grip of its mood.
From "The Story of Music" by Howard Goodall
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.
