Having or showing good manners and consideration for others; refined and courteous in behavior and speech.
From Latin 'politus' meaning polished or refined, past participle of 'polire' (to polish). The connection between physical polishing and social refinement reflects how smoothness became metaphorically associated with sophisticated, courteous behavior.
What counts as 'polite' varies dramatically across cultures - direct eye contact shows respect in some societies but rudeness in others. The concept of politeness is so culturally specific that anthropologists study it to understand social hierarchies and values.
Politeness norms historically enforced differentially by gender: women expected to be compliant/quiet; men permitted assertiveness. 'Polite' often coded feminine compliance.
Use 'respectful,' 'considerate,' or 'professional' to denote reciprocal courtesy rather than gendered deference.
["respectful","considerate","courteous"]
Women's voices have been silenced under politeness expectations; assertiveness reframed as rudeness when used by women speakers.
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