WELL-BRED Synonyms: 115 Similar and Opposite Words

well-bred

adjective

ˈwel-ˈbred

Definition of well-bred

as in polite

showing consideration, courtesy, and good manners a well-bred young woman who is unfailingly polite to everyone

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of well-bred As the sun set on the gentlemanly era of relationship banking, Wall Street needed to recruit huge numbers of the most talented—not just well-bred or best-connected—bankers to keep up. — Literary Hub, 15 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for well-bred

Adjective

The conversations remained cordial, despite vehement disagreements at times, with Talarico and the voters engaging in polite small talk before delving into, at times, heavy topics.

— Lauren Green, The Washington Examiner, 15 Oct. 2026
The application moves away from last-minute stress, unwanted items, and polite pretense, establishing a modern channel for intentional giving.

— Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of polite

Adjective

No Camas coach would talk (although one, along with a school administrator, was gracious to me), and the boy's mother wouldn't acknowledge my presence Saturday.

— Matt Calkins OutKick, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026
Overcast Milan was looking even grayer than I’d have liked, but I was heartened by a gracious welcome at the Park Hyatt, tucked away on a side street of the Piazza del Duomo.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Oct. 2026

Definition of gracious

Adjective

Widespread civil unrest over teacher shortages and economic hardship escalated across France over the weekend as rioters clashed with police and stormed public buildings.

— Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 20 Oct. 2026
Background checks must now encompass any pending or settled civil cases.

— Matthew Ablon, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of civil

Browse Nearby Words

wellborn

well-bred

well-conditioned

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“Well-bred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/well-bred. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of well-bred

adjective

Example Sentences

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