English Reference
adjective

skilled

adj.
US /ˈskɪɫd/ UK /skˈɪld/ skilled

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    having the training and experience needed to do something well.

    possessing the necessary ability, training, or knowledge to perform a task or role effectively.

    Simple

    The company is looking for skilled workers who have experience with modern machinery.

    In context

    The restoration of the cathedral required highly skilled stonemasons who could replicate the intricate Gothic carvings with historical accuracy.

    unskilledinexpert
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    describes a job or task that needs special abilities or training to do.

    characterised by the requirement of specialised training or technical expertise.

    Simple

    Nursing is a skilled profession that requires years of study and practice.

    In context

    Economists often distinguish between skilled and unskilled labour when analysing the impact of automation on the regional manufacturing sector.

Usage highly skilled · skilled labour · skilled worker

Those included about 40,000 Palm workers and 70,000 skilled workers, including aged care nurses.

The Guardian· 23 Aug 2026

Making documentaries, though, is often about taking people to the places they’re most skilled at avoiding.

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

Etymology 1

From skill (noun) + -ed.

Etymology 2

From skill (verb).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated