well-meaning

adjective

well-mean·​ing ˈwel-ˈmē-niŋ How to pronounce well-meaning (audio)
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.
Even neutral or well-meaning gestures are perceived as selfish, passive-aggressive or hostile. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 Evidently, though, some well-meaning attempts to connect people with programs are falling flat. Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 19 June 2025 Mental-health professionals and well-meaning advice dispensers all seem to encourage a retired life filled with service to others, and devoted to maintaining or strengthening social contacts. James Parker, The Atlantic, 17 June 2025 For Brian Tyree Henry playing the role of a messy but well-meaning ex-convict was oddly cathartic. Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 16 June 2025 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 1 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

well-meaning

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

More from Merriam-Webster on well-meaning

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