speaking

adjective

speak·​ing ˈspē-kiŋ 

1

a

: that speaks : capable of speech

b

: having a population that speaks a specified language

—usually used in combination

English-speaking countries

c

: that involves talking or giving speeches

a speaking role

a speaking tour

2

: highly significant or expressive : eloquent

3

: resembling a living being or a real object

Examples of speaking in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some may be non-speaking while others might speak very fluidly. —Andrea Kane, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2026

After losing his natural speaking voice, Kilmer turned to an AI software company to digital recreate his voice. —Jake Coyle, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

Damon played one of Jack's former roommates in a non-speaking role. —Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 16 Jan. 2026

Each is distinct and immersively imagined by author Woody Brown, himself a non-speaking person. —Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing speaking

• financially speaking
• generally speaking
• in a manner of speaking
• on speaking terms
• public speaking
• relatively speaking
• speaking part/role
• speaking tube
• speaking voice

Rhymes for speaking

• creaking
• eking
• freaking
• leaking
• peaking
• peeking
• reeking
• seeking
• shrieking
• sneaking
• squeaking
• streaking

Legal Definition

speaking

adjective

speak·​ing

: addressing matters not raised in the pleadings

a speaking motion