Well Meaning

UK /wɛl/
US /wɛl/
Word Definition
well meaning

Well Definition & Usage

adverb

In a manner that is good, satisfactory, or appropriate.

Examples

  • "She performed well in the competition."
  • "The meeting went well, and all points were covered."
  • "He speaks English well despite his limited exposure."
  • "The event turned out well despite the weather."
  • "The team played well and secured the championship."
adjective

In good health or physical state.

Examples

  • "After a good night's rest, I felt well and ready for the day."
  • "He was still not feeling well after the long journey."
  • "She looks well after her recovery from surgery."
  • "The patient is doing well after the operation."
  • "I'm glad to hear you're doing well!"
interjection

An exclamation used to signal a pause or thinking.

Examples

  • "Well, I’m not sure about that decision."
  • "Well, let’s think about this for a moment."
  • "Well, I guess we’ll have to reconsider."
  • "Well, this is certainly unexpected."
  • "Well, that’s a good question!"
noun

A deep hole or shaft from which water can be drawn.

Examples

  • "They dug a well for fresh water on the farm."
  • "The village depends on the old well for its water supply."
  • "The well dried up during the drought last summer."
  • "We found an ancient well hidden in the forest."
  • "A new well was constructed to meet the town’s water needs."
verb

To make or become good or better in condition or state.

Examples

  • "She welled up with tears after hearing the good news."
  • "The wounds began to well as the doctor applied pressure."
  • "He had to well his thoughts before responding."
  • "I could see the joy welling in her eyes as she spoke."
  • "The water began to well from the cracks in the dam."

Cultural Context

The word 'well' has various meanings and uses in English, ranging from health-related to expressions of satisfaction and surprise. It has Old English roots, deriving from the word 'wells,' which refers to a water source. In modern use, 'well' is versatile and often seen in casual conversations, health contexts, and idiomatic expressions.

The Well of Good Decisions

Story

The Well of Good Decisions

In a quiet village nestled between the hills, there was an ancient well at the center of the square. It had been there for centuries, its waters a source of life for all the villagers. The well was more than just a water source; it was a place of reflection, a place where people came to think. One day, a traveler arrived, tired from his long journey. He walked up to the well, feeling both physically exhausted and mentally drained. 'Well, I’ve been walking for days,' he muttered to himself, leaning against the stone edge. The water sparkled under the midday sun, inviting him to drink. The local elder, a wise woman named Elira, noticed him. 'You look well, despite your long journey,' she said, smiling gently. 'Thank you,' the traveler replied, though he wasn’t sure if he truly felt well. He had many questions, and not enough answers. As they sat by the well, Elira explained the legend of the well. 'The well isn’t just for drinking; it’s for thinking. Those who come here often leave with answers to their questions.' The traveler thought about it and decided to take a moment. 'Well, I have been wondering for a while about my path forward,' he said. Elira nodded. 'Sometimes, when we pause and listen, the answers come.' As the traveler sat in silence, he began to feel well in his heart, as clarity filled his mind. 'I think I know what I need to do next,' he said, standing up. Elira smiled again. 'The well does its work in mysterious ways.' The traveler left the village that afternoon, but he carried with him the peace of knowing that sometimes, the best decisions come when you are well-rested and clear of mind, just like the waters of the well.

The Well of Good Decisions