rhizoverbBeta
DictionarygentilitySocial standing
noun

gentility

Status as a member of a respectable or upper social class.

The family regards its old estate as proof of gentility.

Etymology
gentilityLatinof a family or clan

The Latin adjective concerns belonging to a family. Its social development connected family standing with recognized respectability or high birth, giving gentility this status sense.

More examples

  • Her wealth alone does not guarantee gentility.
  • He marries into a family whose gentility is widely recognized.
  • Their claim to gentility rests on generations of land ownership.

Forms

genteel adjective — Associated with respectable or upper-class life.

Similar words

nobility
Indicates hereditary rank, rather than respectable social standing generally.
respectability
Emphasizes social acceptance and good reputation rather than class.
status
Covers any social position, not only a respectable one.