Well

Definition

Well is a versatile word functioning as an adverb, adjective, noun, verb, and interjection. As an adverb, it describes a satisfactory or appropriate manner. As an adjective, it means in good health or satisfactory condition. As a noun, it refers to a source of water or other substances. As a verb, it means to rise to the surface, often as a liquid. As an interjection, it introduces or emphasizes statements.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb
• Interjection

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɛl/
• Respelling: WEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɛl/
• Respelling: WEL

Etymology

The word "well" originates from Old English "wel," meaning "in a good or proper manner," and Old English "wella," meaning "spring or fountain." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*wella-" and Proto-Indo-European "*wel-," meaning "to bubble or boil."

Derivatives

• Wellness (noun)
• Well-being (noun)
• Wellhead (noun)
• Well-made (adjective)
• Well-founded (adjective)

Synonyms

• (Adverb) Properly
• (Adjective) Healthy
• (Noun) Spring

Antonyms

• (Adverb) Poorly
• (Adjective) Unwell
• (Noun) None

Usage

The word "well" is used in various contexts. As an adverb: "She performed well in the test." As an adjective: "He feels well after the treatment." As a noun: "The villagers drew water from the well." As a verb: "Tears began to well up in her eyes." As an interjection: "Well, I suppose that’s true."

Related Terms

• Fountain: A natural or artificial source of water.
• Health: The state of being free from illness or injury.
• Properly: In an appropriate or correct manner.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• In a good or satisfactory manner: Describes doing something correctly.
  • Example: "She speaks French very well."

Adjective

• In good health: Indicates a satisfactory physical condition.
  • Example: "He is feeling well after recovering from the flu."

Noun

• A deep hole or shaft for obtaining water, oil, or gas: Refers to a physical structure for extraction.
  • Example: "The old well in the backyard still provides fresh water."
• A source of supply or inspiration: Refers metaphorically to a plentiful origin.
  • Example: "She is a well of knowledge."

Verb

• To rise to the surface: Refers to liquids bubbling or emerging.
  • Example: "Tears welled in her eyes."

Interjection

• Used to express surprise, hesitation, or agreement: Introduces or emphasizes a statement.
  • Example: "Well, I didn’t expect that to happen."