Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Strongly and firmly constructed; having a solid, sturdy, or compact build: Used primarily to describe a person's physical build, indicating a body that is solid, muscular, and not easily moved or broken. It implies a balanced and robust physique.

Usage

The adjective "well-set" is used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like "be"). It is a somewhat formal or literary term, often found in descriptive writing. - Attributive use: Describing a noun directly. - He was a well-set man with broad shoulders. - Predicative use: Following a linking verb. - The boxer was short but well-set.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "Well-set" can occasionally be used metaphorically to describe something that is solidly established or firmly fixed, though this is less common than its physical application.
  • The company's reputation was well-set in the industry.

Variants and Related Words

• Well-knit (adjective): An alternative form with the same meaning, often used interchangeably with "well-set" to describe a sturdy, compact physique or a tightly constructed argument or production.
  • The team was composed of well-knit athletes.
• Stocky (adjective): Having a solid, sturdy, and often relatively short build.
• Sturdy (adjective): Strongly and solidly built.
• Robust (adjective): Strong and healthy; vigorous.

Synonyms

• Sturdy
• Stocky
• Robust
• Athletic build
• Compact
• Solidly built

Antonyms

• Frail
• Slender
• Lanky
• Delicate
• Slight

Notes

"Well-set" is a compound adjective formed from the adverb "well" and the past participle "set." It is important to distinguish it from the phrasal verb "set well," which has a different meaning (e.g., "The cement has set well"). The hyphenated form "well-set" is standard when used as an adjective before a noun.

Adjective

1. strongly and firmly constructed
   • a well-knit argument
   • a well-knit theatrical production
   • well-knit athletes
   • a sailor short but well-set- Alexander Hamilton