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genteel

Browse the Dictionary:: A; B; C; D; E; F; G; H; I; J; K; L; M; N; O; P; Q; R; S; T; U; V; W; X; Y; Z; #

genteel

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

Listen to the pronunciation of genteelly

\-ˈtē(l)-lē\ adverb

— gen·teel·ness noun

Learn more about "genteel" and related topics at Britannica.com

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