the compound adjective "well-intentioned" is a relatively modern english formation, built from native and latinate components. the adverb "well," of germanic origin, has consistently meant "in a good manner" since old english. "intention" entered english in the late middle ages from latin intentio, which itself derives from the verb intendere ("to stretch toward, aim at"), combining in- ("toward") and tendere ("to stretch"). the suffix "-ed" is the standard english adjectival suffix indicating possession of a quality. therefore, the word's literal construction is "having a purpose that is aimed at in a good way," which perfectly captures its modern meaning of meaning to do good, regardless of the outcome.

Structure: well (good) + intention (purpose) + ed (adjective suffix) - well: from old english wel, meaning "in a good way, properly, satisfactorily." functions as an adverb modifying the following element. - intention: from latin intentio (a stretching out, purpose), via old french. the core morpheme tent relates to stretching. functions as the core noun denoting purpose or aim. - ed: from old english -ede, -od, -ad, a suffix forming adjectives from nouns, meaning "having, provided with."