well-meaning

adjective

well-mean·​ing ˈwel-ˈmē-niŋ How to pronounce well-meaning (audio)
Synonyms of well-meaningnext
1
: having good intentions
well-meaning but misguided idealists
2
: based on good intentions
well-meaning advice

Examples of well-meaning in a Sentence

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.
This approach, while perhaps well-meaning, can silence students, curtail their growth and rob them of learning opportunities. Boaz Dvir, The Conversation, 14 Mar. 2026 There’s Diem’s grandparents, Grace (Lauren Graham) and Patrick (Bradley Whitford), who are well-meaning but full of righteous wrath about the woman who was responsible for their son’s death. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 11 Mar. 2026 Even the most well-meaning can cross boundaries without realizing it. Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2026 Dealing with prying relatives or well-meaning (or not-so-well-meaning) smug married friends? Literary Hub, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for well-meaning

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of well-meaning was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Well-meaning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/well-meaning. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

well-meaning

adjective
well-mean·​ing
-ˈmē-niŋ
: having or based on good intentions

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