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well-bred

[wel-bred] / ˈwɛlˈbrɛd /
ADJECTIVE
mannerly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
aristocratic patrician urbane well-mannered
WEAK
blue-blooded civil considerate courteous courtly cultivated cultured gallant genteel gentle noble polished polite refined taught trained upper-crust well-behaved
Antonyms
WEAK
ignoble unmannered unrefined unsophisticated

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The exorbitant cost of buying a well-bred racehorse is not for the faint of wallet.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2025

In one fell swoop, the well-bred cow showcased Brazil's prowess in the business of modern cattle ranching.

From National Geographic • Jan. 24, 2024

There’s concern that “we’re losing the battle with education and just promoting a well-bred dog,” Sosa said.

From Seattle Times • May 7, 2023

She added: "The public has the choice, choose healthy, well-bred dogs or choose this kind of exaggerated mutant. I wouldn't buy any of these dogs. I feel really sorry for them."

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2023

“What in the world are you doing here?” she asked, regarding her disheveled sister with well-bred surprise.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott