Cultured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cultured

[ˈkʌltʃərd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

well-educated

Having good education, manners, and taste in art, music, literature, etc.

Synonyms

educated, learned, polished, refined, sophisticated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cultured	Describes someone who has good manners, fine tastes, and knowledge about art, music, literature, etc. He is a very cultured person who enjoys visiting art galleries and operas. The couple lives in a cultured neighborhood known for its museums and theaters.
educated	Refers to someone who has received formal schooling and has a certain level of academic knowledge. She is highly educated, having attended one of the best universities. An educated workforce is crucial for the growth of the economy.
refined	Indicates someone who has good taste and manners, often associated with delicacy and elegance. He has a refined taste in wine and classical music. She leads a very refined lifestyle, filled with art exhibitions and fine dining.
sophisticated	Describes someone who is experienced and knowledgeable, particularly about the ways of the world and often related to modern, complex tastes. The city is known for its sophisticated nightlife and restaurants. She is a sophisticated woman who travels often and understands different cultures.
polished	Describes someone who is skilled in social manners and etiquette, often with a smooth and impressive way of speaking or behaving. Her speech was very polished, impressing everyone in the room. A polished host, he made sure all his guests felt at ease.
learned	Used to describe someone who has gained a lot of knowledge, especially through reading and study. Often used in more formal contexts. The professor is a learned scholar of ancient languages. He wrote a learned article on the history of philosophy.

Examples of usage

She is a cultured woman who enjoys visiting museums and attending classical concerts.
His cultured upbringing is evident in his refined manners and sophisticated tastes.
The cultured audience appreciated the subtle nuances of the play.
The company is known for its cultured employees who have a passion for continuous learning.
Growing up in a cultured environment allowed her to develop a strong appreciation for the arts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Research suggests that exposure to diverse cultures can enhance empathy and understanding, making a person more 'cultured'.
Individuals described as 'cultured' often exhibit higher emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate social situations more adeptly.
Being cultured can contribute to overall life satisfaction, as it encourages lifelong learning and curiosity about the world.

Art

Art movements like the Renaissance and Enlightenment significantly shaped what it means to be cultured, emphasizing the importance of art and critical thought.
The appreciation of classical music and literature often marks a cultured person's interests, highlighting their connection to historical traditions.
World-class museums and galleries are often seen as embodiments of culture, where individuals can explore and expand their understanding.

Sociology

'Cultured' individuals often participate in activities that reflect their interests in the arts, sciences, and humanities, influencing societal norms and values.
Cultural events, such as festivals and exhibitions, provide platforms for cultured individuals to express and share their knowledge.
The idea of being cultured varies across cultures; what is valued in one society may differ enormously in another.

Pop Culture

Media portrayals often contrast cultured characters with others to highlight differences in sophistication and intelligence.
Television shows and films frequently depict art galleries and orchestras as settings where cultured interactions take place.
Cultural influencers today promote awareness of various art forms through social media, redefining what it means to be cultured in a globalized world.

Origin of 'cultured'

Main points about word origin

The word 'cultured' comes from the Latin 'cultura,' which means to cultivate or care for.
Originally, 'culture' was associated with agriculture, referring to the cultivation of land before evolving to encompass intellectual and artistic growth.
The modern sense of 'cultured' emerged in English in the 18th century, reflecting enlightenment thinking and the value placed on education.

The word 'cultured' originated from the Latin word 'cultura', which means cultivation or tending. In the 17th century, it began to be used in English to describe someone who was well-educated and refined. Over time, 'cultured' has come to encompass not only education but also a deep appreciation for the arts, literature, and other forms of human expression.

See also: cult, cultivate, culture, enculturation, occult.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,980 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8977 mapped
8978 locating
8979 poisonous
8980 cultured
8981 supposition
8982 developers
8983 waving
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