adjective
genteel
jen-TEEL/dʒenˈtiːl/
Polite and refined in an upper-class, often affected or old-fashioned way.
Her genteel manners make even a casual lunch feel rather formal.
Etymology
Belonging to a family or clan developed into the idea of noble birth and then fashionable, refined manners. The later mocking use of genteel gives that refinement its affected or old-fashioned coloring.
In context
Thompson was active in mid 19th century New York City sporting a genteel appearance and courteous demeanor he would walk up to affluent strangers and strike up a conversation acting like an old acquaintance
More examples
- He adopts a genteel accent whenever he visits his wealthy relatives.
- Their genteel dinner parties feature soft conversation and polished silver.
- She hides her irritation behind a genteel smile.
Forms
genteel · genteeler · genteelest
gentility noun — Refinement associated with upper-class manners.
genteelly adverb — In a refined, sometimes affected manner.
Similar words
- refined
- Emphasizes cultivated taste and manners without necessarily suggesting affectation.
- polished
- Suggests smooth social skill rather than old-fashioned upper-class manners.
- decorous
- Emphasizes proper behavior rather than social class or elegance.