Disposition to do what is right; good intentions.
1569. Elviden, Closet of Counsels (1573), To Rdr. I craue thy curtesie to respect of my well meaning, rather than of my abilitie.
a. 1586. Sidney, Arcadia, III. (1922), 57. The almightie powers, whom I inuoke as triers of mine innocencie and witnesses of my wel meaning.
1667. H. More, Div. Dial., V. xxvi. (1713), 487. If that be at the bottom,… their well-meaning is commendable.
1703. Earl Orrery, As you find it, III. ii. 38. Sir, your Deportment has been very surprizing to me,… but your Youth and Well-meaning may in a great measure excuse you.
1744. Mason, Musæus (1748), 13. Let my well-meaning mend my ill essay.
1768. Woman of Honor, I. 209. A few men of good sense, and real well-meaning.
a. 1849. H. Coleridge, Ess. (1851), II. 254. Though I give the Bishop credit for well-meaning in his refusal of the pictures offered to St. Paul’s.
