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.
While human verbatim transcription services offer high accuracy and preserve important nuances in spoken communication, this process isn't without challenges. Beth Worthy, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025 In response to the cancellation, The Murder Capital offered a spoken statement from outside the venue while holding the Palestinian flag. Tyler Jenke, Billboard, 12 May 2025 George the Poet, a spoken word artist in London, was inspired by nature that exists in places where people might not expect it. Claire Murashima, NPR, 22 Apr. 2025 Despite her accomplishments, Domer is soft spoken and humble. Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 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 28 May. 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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