Entry Word: civility

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 an act or utterance that is a customary show of good manners <after the usual civilities, the parents and the principal had a serious talk about the boy>

Synonyms amenity, courtesy, formality, gesture

Related Words ceremony, observance, rite, ritual; etiquette, manners, proprieties; greetings, regards, respects; favor, grace, kindness

2 speech or behavior that is a sign of good breeding <treated people from all walks of life with the same unfailing civility> — see politeness