politeness - definition of politeness - synonyms, pronunciation, spelling from Free Dictionary

Open English WordNet

Noun (2)

a courteous manner that respects accepted social usageSynonyms: nicenessType of courtesy, good mannersAttribute of polite, impolite
the act of showing regard for othersSynonyms: civilityType of actionKinds courtesy, deference, devoir

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Webster's Dictionary (1913)

Po·lite′ness noun

1. High finish; smoothness; burnished elegance. rare John Evelyn

2. The quality or state of being polite; refinement of manners; urbanity; courteous behavior; complaisance; obliging attentions.

Synonyms: Courtesy; good breeding; refinement; urbanity; courteousness; affability; complaisance; civility; gentility; courtliness. — Politeness, Courtesy. Politeness denotes that ease and gracefulness of manners which first sprung up in cities, connected with a desire to please others by anticipating their wants and wishes, and studiously avoiding whatever might give them pain. Courtesy is, etymologically, the politeness of courts. It displays itself in the address and manners; it is shown more especially in receiving and entertaining others, and is a union of dignified complaisance and kindness.

Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54

The Devil's Dictionary

POLITENESS, n. The most acceptable hypocrisy.