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

As CNN's John King and MSNBC's Steve Kornacki poked at states and districts on their respective touchscreen maps, Williams calmly emceed a polite conversation about the election from the center of a gigantic Los Angeles soundstage.

From Salon

Slot has made an outstanding start at Liverpool, his almost under-the-radar approach reflected in his polite celebrations after the final whistle blows, in sharp contrast to the fist-pumping antics and wild animation of the man who went before him.

From BBC

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

Related Words

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