'To be on speaking terms' definitions:
Definition of 'To be on speaking terms'
From: GCIDE
- Speaking \Speak"ing\, a.
- 1. Uttering speech; used for conveying speech; as, man is a speaking animal; a speaking tube. [1913 Webster]
- 2. Seeming to be capable of speech; hence, lifelike; as, a speaking likeness. [1913 Webster]
- A speaking acquaintance, a slight acquaintance with a person, or one which merely permits the exchange of salutations and remarks on indifferent subjects.
- Speaking trumpet, an instrument somewhat resembling a trumpet, by which the sound of the human voice may be so intensified as to be conveyed to a great distance.
- Speaking tube, a tube for conveying speech, especially from one room to another at a distance.
- To be on speaking terms, to be slightly acquainted. [1913 Webster]