fluent

adjective

flu·​ent ˈflü-ənt 

1

a

: capable of flowing : fluid

powdered, granular, or fluent materials

b

: capable of moving with ease and grace

the fluent body of a dancer

2

a

: capable of using a language easily and accurately

fluent in Spanish

a fluent writer

b

: effortlessly smooth and flowing

a fluent performance

spoke in fluent English

c

: having or showing mastery of a subject or skill

fluent in math

fluently adverb

Synonyms

• articulate
• eloquent
• vocal
• outspoken

Examples of fluent in a Sentence

a fluent speaker of Chinese

a very fluent speaker who always communicates his points well

Recent Examples on the Web

In Bridgend, Wales, where Robert Minhinnick was born and raised, few locals would call themselves fluent in the country’s native Cymraeg, or Welsh. —Robert Minhinnick, The Dial, 2 Oct. 2025

While Martin isn't a fluent English speaker, Daniel says his dad can read the online comments to the clips. —David Chiu, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025

Miller, who for many years managed the orchestra at the Hollywood Bowl, is fluent in the language of vintage show biz. —Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 29 Sep. 2025

Prada convinced with its fluent wardrobe. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin fluent-, fluens, present participle of fluere — more at fluid

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for fluent

• suant
• truant
• confluent
• diluent
• eluent
• pursuant

Kids Definition

fluent

adjective

flu·​ent ˈflü-ənt 

1

: fluid entry 1 sense 1a

2

a

: able to speak easily and smoothly

fluent in Spanish

b

: done in a smooth easy way

fluently adverb

Etymology

from Latin fluent-, fluens, present participle of fluere "to flow" — related to fluid