genteel
UK: dʒɛnˈtiːl | US: dʒɛnˈtiːl
adj. refined, polite, or elegant in manner or appearance (often implying excessive or affected sophistication)
adj. belonging to or characteristic of high society
genteel = gent<well-born> + eel<adjective suffix>
- gent (from Old French gent / Latin gentilis, meaning "of noble birth" or "well-bred")
- eel (a suffix used in Middle English to form adjectives, often implying a quality or characteristic)
Etymology Origin:
The word genteel traces back to the Latin gentilis (meaning "of the same clan or family"), which evolved into Old French gentil ("noble, high-born"). In Middle English, it adopted the suffix -eel to form an adjective describing refined manners associated with nobility. Over time, its meaning shifted slightly to emphasize polished behavior, sometimes with a connotation of artificiality or pretentiousness.
She spoke in a genteel tone, carefully avoiding any vulgar expressions.
The tea party was a genteel affair, with delicate china and polite conversation.
His genteel upbringing made him uncomfortable in rough surroundings.
The novel satirizes the genteel hypocrisy of the upper class.
Despite her genteel appearance, she had a sharp wit and strong opinions.