speaking: Meaning and Definition of

speak•ing

1. the act, utterance, or discourse of a person who speaks.
2. literary works composed for recitation, as ancient bardic poetry; oral literature.

1. that speaks.
2. used in, suited to, or involving speaking or talking: the speaking voice.
3. of or pertaining to declamation.
4. giving information as if by speech: a speaking proof of a thing.
5. highly expressive: speaking eyes.
6. lifelike: a speaking likeness.
7. not or no longer in a relationship of open, willing, or ready communication, as because of resentment or estrangement: They had a squabble during the holidays, and now they're not on speaking terms.
8. I don't know the hosts well, but we are certainly on speaking terms.
1. in a relationship close enough for or limited to friendly superficialities:I don't know the hosts well, but we are certainly on speaking terms.
2. in a relationship of open, willing, or ready communication:Now that the debt has been settled, I hope you and your partner are on speaking terms again.