spoken

adjective

spo·​ken ˈspō-kən 

1

: delivered by word of mouth : oral

2

: characterized by speaking in (such) a manner

—used in combination

soft-spoken

plainspoken

Synonyms of spoken

• oral
• verbal

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

In brooding spoken word, Cole Haden portrays his identity as vampiric, fueled by his obsessions—both intimate and parasocial—with others. —Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 12 Dec. 2025

Christian moves through his everyday life with an easygoing spirit and a soft-spoken kindness that stems from the togetherness of his family. —Jessica Oliva, Miami Herald, 10 Dec. 2025

In his discussion of history, America’s War on Terror, and creative resistance, Zinn’s essays are plain spoken but polemical, challenging us to not limit ourselves and never accept the story we’re offered. —Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 9 Dec. 2025

The performance featured multiple outfit changes, spoken-word moments, and fan interaction. —Caché McClay, Nashville Tennessean, 9 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

past participle of speak

First Known Use

1560, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spoken

• be spoken for
• fair-spoken
• free-spoken
• short-spoken
• softly-spoken
• soft-spoken
• well-spoken

Rhymes for spoken

• broken
• oaken
• token
• woken
• awoken
• betoken
• heartbroken
• outspoken
• unbroken
• unspoken

Kids Definition

spoken

adjective

spo·​ken ˈspō-kən 

1

: given by or using speech

a spoken message

the spoken language

2

: speaking in a specified manner

soft-spoken

plainspoken