to be on speaking terms

1 definition found

to be on speaking terms - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  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]