wellread

Well-read is an adjective used to describe a person who has read extensively and across varied subjects, especially literature. A well-read individual is typically familiar with major authors, genres, and periods, and is able to reference works in analysis or conversation.

The term is a compound of well and read, formed in English to denote breadth of reading. It is commonly hyphenated as well-read, though some writers use the two words without a hyphen when following a verb, as in "she is well read."

In cultural discourse, being well-read is often associated with cultural capital and credibility in literary or intellectual contexts. Critics note that the label can signal class position or canon formation, and may overlook non-traditional or contemporary voices.

In the digital age, access to global texts has expanded who might be described as well-read, with readers drawing from print, online, and translated works. The term remains flexible, used descriptively rather than prescriptively, and its meaning evolves with changing reading practices.