gentility etymology

Etymology:

  • Derived from the Old French word "gentilesse," meaning "nobility of character" or "kindness."
  • Ultimately from the Latin word "gens," meaning "clan" or "family."

Meaning:

  • The quality or state of being gentle, courteous, and kind.
  • A refined and courteous manner or behavior.
  • A kind act or gesture.

Origin:

The concept of gentility has its roots in medieval Europe, where it referred to the noble character and behavior expected of the upper classes. Over time, the meaning expanded to include a broader sense of kindness and politeness.

Additional Notes:

  • The related word "genteel" has a similar meaning but specifically refers to a person with refined or elegant manners.

Examples of Use:

  • "She greeted everyone with a gentle smile."
  • "His gentility extended to both his friends and strangers alike."
  • "The old man's gentility had earned him the respect of his community."

gentility relate terms

  • gentle

    Etymology Middle English gentyl from Anglo French gentil from Latin gentilis from gen

  • gentleman

    Etymology The word gentleman comes from the Middle English term gentilman which itse

  • gentile

    Etymology The word gentile originates from the Latin word gens which means nation

  • genteel

    Etymology From Middle English genteel from Anglo French gentil from Medieval Latin ge

  • gentry

    Etymology Old French genterie gentrie nobility gentry high class From Latin gent

  • gentle

    Etymology Middle English gentyl from Anglo French gentil from Latin gentilis from gen

  • manhood

    Etymology The word manhood derives from the Old English word manhād which itself is

  • shabby

    Etymology From Middle English schabby poor worn out possibly from Middle Dutch

  • context

    Etymology of Context The word context originates from the Latin word contextus mea

  • muster

    Etymology and Origin The word muster has its origins in the Old French word monstre

  • bootstrap

    Etymology The word bootstrap comes from the phrase pull oneself up by one s bootstrap

  • avatar

    Etymology and Meaning The word avatar is derived from the Sanskrit word avatāra whi

  • patriot

    Etymology The word patriot derives from the Latin word pater which means father