speaking

adjective

speak·​ing ˈspē-kiŋ 

1

a

: that speaks : capable of speech

b

: having a population that speaks a specified language

—usually used in combination

English-speaking countries

c

: that involves talking or giving speeches

a speaking role

a speaking tour

2

: highly significant or expressive : eloquent

3

: resembling a living being or a real object

Examples of speaking in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This will be a recurring non-speaking role that pays $195 for 12 hours of work. —Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Dec. 2025

Those episodes were beaten out, however, by an episode from Telepathy Tapes, which explores the idea that non-speaking individuals with autism can communicate telepathically. —Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 18 Nov. 2025

Julia may end this episode on a (relatively speaking, always remember) high note, but Henry … oh boy, Henry. —Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 5 Sep. 2025

Rescuers found the snowmobiler, conscious and speaking but cold, under 2 feet of snow, according to a Facebook post by the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. —Paloma Chavez, Sacramento Bee, 18 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing speaking

• financially speaking
• generally speaking
• in a manner of speaking
• on speaking terms
• public speaking
• relatively speaking
• speaking part/role
• speaking tube
• speaking voice

Rhymes for speaking

• creaking
• eking
• freaking
• leaking
• peaking
• peeking
• reeking
• seeking
• shrieking
• sneaking
• squeaking
• streaking

Legal Definition

speaking

adjective

speak·​ing

: addressing matters not raised in the pleadings

a speaking motion