1
: able to express ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writing
She's an intelligent and articulate speaker.
He was very articulate about his feelings on the subject.
2
: clearly expressed and easily understood
an articulate argument/essay/speech
The baby is beginning to form articulate words and phrases.
articulates; articulated; articulating
1
: to express (something, such as an idea) in words
He had some trouble articulating his thoughts.
We disagree with the views articulated by the administration.
a theory first articulated by ancient philosophers
2
: to say or pronounce (something, such as a word) in a way that can be clearly heard and understood
She spoke slowly, articulating [=enunciating] each syllable.
Try to articulate [=enunciate] when delivering your speech.
3
technical
: to connect with a joint or something that is like a joint
the bones that articulate with the clavicle
Cite this Entry
“Articulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/articulate. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
