polite

[ puh-lahyt ]

adjective

, po·lit·er, po·lit·est.

1. showing good manners toward others, as in behavior, speech, etc.; courteous; civil:

   a polite reply.

   Synonyms: gracious, well-bred

   Antonyms: rude

2. refined or cultured:

   polite society.

   Synonyms: cultivated, courtly, poised, polished, urbane

3. of a refined or elegant kind:

   polite learning.

polite

/ pəˈlaɪt /

adjective

1. showing regard for others, in manners, speech, behaviour, etc; courteous
2. cultivated or refined

   polite society

3. elegant or polished

   polite letters

Derived Forms

• poˈliteness, noun
• poˈlitely, adverb

Other Words From

• po·lite·ly adverb
• po·lite·ness noun
• su·per·po·lite· adjective
• su·per·po·lite·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of polite¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin polītus, past participle of polīre “to polish”; polish

Word History and Origins

Origin of polite¹

C15: from Latin polītus polished; see polish

Synonym Study

See civil.

Example Sentences

But whenever a fan comes up to me, even if I say, ‘No, I don’t want to take a picture,’ I’m still going to be as polite as I possibly can.

From Los Angeles Times

The fact that I was chilled by his ability to peddle false talking points with a smile while also being one of the most agreeable, polite people I’d ever met.

From Salon

Logan was mild-mannered and polite, as a couple they had a typical teenage relationship that outwardly showed no red flags until the end.

From BBC

Cahuantzi said the interaction was more polite than some he has experienced with voters who oppose the Democratic ticket.

From Los Angeles Times

Those approaches have long tried to bridge the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians through polite dialogue and education.

From BBC

Related Words

• affable
• amiable
• attentive
• civil
• conciliatory
• considerate
• cordial
• courteous
• courtly
• deferential
• diplomatic
• friendly
• genteel
• gentle
• good-natured
• gracious
• neighborly
• pleasant
• respectful
• sociable