Main Entry:

gen·teel

Pronunciation:

\jen-ˈtēl\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Middle French gentil gentle

Date:

1599

1 a: having an aristocratic quality or flavor : stylish b: of or relating to the gentry or upper class c: elegant or graceful in manner, appearance, or shape d: free from vulgarity or rudeness : polite2 a: maintaining or striving to maintain the appearance of superior or middle-class social status or respectability b (1): marked by false delicacy, prudery, or affectation (2): conventionally or insipidly pretty <timid and genteel artistic style>

— gen·teel·ly \-ˈtē(l)-lē\ adverb

— gen·teel·ness noun