What does skilled mean?
Skilled describes a person who has developed a high level of ability, competence, or expertise through knowledge, training, and practice. It commonly appears in professional and employment contexts, as in “skilled workers” or “highly skilled staff,” and can also describe someone particularly capable at a specific task: “She is skilled at repairing instruments.” The word is broadly positive and suggests not merely basic familiarity but an ability to perform effectively and proficiently. Because it is a general adjective, it can be followed by a preposition such as “at” or a noun naming an area of expertise. Both British and US English use “skilled,” although “skillful” and its British variant “skilful” convey a similar idea.
adjectiveHaving a high level of skill, competence, or expertise in a particular activity or field. Able to perform a task or role effectively and proficiently.
- Having a high level of competence or expertise in performing a task or occupying a role.
- Having sufficient ability or training to do something well.
"She is a highly skilled craftsperson whose work is admired throughout the region."
"The hospital is looking for skilled nurses to join its emergency department."
"He became skilled in traditional woodworking through years of careful practice."
Skilled is the human equivalent of a finely tuned instrument: ability that has been developed through knowledge and practice.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skilled come from?
The adjective “skilled” was formed in Middle English from “skill” with the suffix “-ed,” originally conveying the idea of possessing skill or knowledge. “Skill” derives from Old English “skil,” meaning skill, knowledge, or ability, and ultimately relates to a Germanic root concerned with discernment or understanding. The family also includes forms such as “skillful,” “skilful,” and “skilledly,” developed with the same root in different periods and regional spelling traditions.
Related word forms
How skilled is actually used
Generally positive and widely used in formal and informal contexts. It is especially common in employment, education, training, and professional descriptions.
Easily confused with skilled
Both terms mean having skill, but “skilled” is the usual form in both British and US English, while “skillful” is especially common in US English and its standard spelling in British English is often “skilful.”