manner

man·ner

noun \ˈma-nər\

Definition of MANNER

1

a : kind, sort <what manner of man is he>

b : kinds, sorts <all manner of problems>

2

a (1) : a characteristic or customary mode of acting : custom (2) : a mode of procedure or way of acting : fashion (3) : method of artistic execution or mode of presentation : style

b plural : social conduct or rules of conduct as shown in the prevalent customs <Victorian manners>

c : characteristic or distinctive bearing, air, or deportment <his poised gracious manner>

d plural (1) : habitual conduct or deportment : behavior <mind your manners> (2) : good manners

e : a distinguished or stylish air

— man·ner·less \-ləs\ adjective

— to the manner born

: fitted by or as if by birth or rearing to a particular position, role, or status

Examples of MANNER

1. She has a very forceful manner of speaking.
2. I objected to the manner in which the decision was made.
3. Some people have no manners.
4. Someone should teach you some manners!
5. He forgot his manners and reached across the table for the salt.
6. He painted this picture in his early manner.

Origin of MANNER

Middle English manere, from Anglo-French, from Vulgar Latin *manuaria, from Latin, feminine of manuarius of the hand, from manus hand — more at manual

First Known Use: 12th century

Related to MANNER

Synonyms

etiquette, form, mores, proprieties

Related Words

amenities, civilities, pleasantries; bearing, demeanor, deportment, mien; courtesy, decorum, mannerliness, politeness; formalities, protocol, rules; air, attitude, carriage, poise, polish, pose, posture, presence; custom, habit, pattern, practice (also practise), trick, way, wont; convention, fashion, mode, style

See Synonym Discussion at bearing, method

Rhymes with MANNER

banner, canner, fanner, lanner, manor, planner, scanner, spanner, tanner, vanner