Spoken

Definition

The term "spoken" refers to something expressed or communicated through speech rather than writing, or describes a way of using or relating to oral language.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb (past participle of "speak")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspoʊ.kən/
• Respelling: SPOH-kuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspəʊ.kən/
• Respelling: SPOH-kuhn

Etymology

The word "spoken" originates from the Old English "sprecan" or "specan," meaning "to talk" or "utter words." It is the past participle of the verb "speak," which traces its roots to Proto-Germanic "*sprekaną" and is cognate with other Germanic languages such as German "sprechen."

Derivatives

• Unspoken (adjective)
• Outspoken (adjective)
• Well-spoken (adjective)
• Soft-spoken (adjective)
• Spoken-word (noun, adjective)

Synonyms

• Oral
• Verbal
• Uttered

Antonyms

• Written
• Unsaid
• None

Usage

The term "spoken" is often used to contrast communication through speech versus writing. For example, "Her spoken English is excellent," or "The contract must be in writing, not just spoken agreements."

Related Terms

• Speech: The act of speaking or verbal communication.
• Oral: Relating to the mouth or spoken language.
• Dialogue: A conversation between two or more people.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Expressed in speech, not writing:
  • Example: "The agreement was purely spoken, not written."
• Relating to or characteristic of speech:
  • Example: "Her spoken delivery was compelling."

Verb (Past Participle)

• The past participle of 'speak':
  • Example: "He had spoken to her about the issue."