spoken

adjective

spo·​ken ˈspō-kən How to pronounce spoken (audio)
1
: delivered by word of mouth : oral
2
: characterized by speaking in (such) a manner
used in combination
soft-spoken
plainspoken

Examples of spoken in a Sentence

a spoken agreement is too easily broken a politician who knows the power of the spoken word
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
These films have synchronized soundtracks but have at most a few spoken words, relying almost exclusively on visuals, music, and sound effects to tell their enchanting stories. Barry Levitt, Vulture, 14 Feb. 2025 In 2024: Photo Gallery & Obituaries 2024 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming One of nation’s most powerful Black executives, Parsons was an astute, soft spoken and genial presence. Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 26 Dec. 2024 Smith’s debut album was released on Arista Records on Nov. 10, 1975 and combined the singer’s urgent, vivid poetry with spiky, minimal arrangements that incorporated reggae rhythms with spoken word and propulsive rock energy. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 11 Feb. 2025 Pupils are now studying the practice of the spoken word in preparation for the local contest to select pupils for the district contest in March. Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spoken

Word History

Etymology

past participle of speak

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spoken was in 1560

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spoken.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spoken. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

spoken

adjective
spo·​ken ˈspō-kən How to pronounce spoken (audio)
1
: given by or using speech
a spoken message
the spoken language
2
: speaking in a specified manner
soft-spoken
plainspoken

More from Merriam-Webster on spoken

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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