Gentilities

/dʒɛnˈtɪlɪtiz/ noun

Definition

Plural of gentility; instances or expressions of refined, polite, and well-mannered behavior, especially in social contexts.

Etymology

From 'gentility' (quality of being gentle or well-born, from Old French 'gentilité') + '-ies' (plural), describing multiple acts or displays of refined behavior.

Kelly Says

Victorian literature is full of characters obsessing over 'gentilities'—the small rituals and courtesies that supposedly distinguish the refined from the common, which is why the term carries a slightly outdated, formal tone.

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