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

While on the podcast, Wilde discussed wanting to make the unspoken punchlines as funny as the spoken ones, finding the humor in the unsaid moments of rage. — Chris O'Falt, IndieWire, 24 June 2026

The abbreviation dates to the early 20th century, and the spelling emcee emerged as the spoken form became a standalone noun and verb, meaning to host or present an event. — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026

The free event will include live music, poetry and spoken-word performers, barbecue, snacks, beverages and local vendors, according to a social media post. — Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026

In her early public appearances, she was often seen with her head bowed and her gaze upward, a posture that, alongside her soft-spoken demeanor, led the British press to characterize her as timid and reserved. — Elle Meier, InStyle, 13 June 2026

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