from
The 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]