civility

Definition

Speech or behaviour that is fit for civil interactions; politeness, courtesy.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin civilitas: compare French civilité. English equivalent civil + -ity.

Example Sentences

• "This is an exact Inventory of what we found about the Body of the Man-Mountain, who uſed us with great Civility, and due Reſpect to your Majeſty's Commiſſion."
• "December 1749 Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, letter to his son The insolent civility of a proud man is, if possible, more shocking than his rudeness could be."
• "Mr Lovelace received from every one those civilities which were due to his birth […]"