civility

American  

[si-vil-i-tee] / sɪˈvɪl ɪ ti /

noun

plural

civilities

1. courtesy; politeness.

   Synonyms:

   tact, amiability, affability

2. a polite action or expression.

   an exchange of civilities.

3. Archaic. civilization; culture; good breeding.

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civility British  

/ sɪˈvɪlɪtɪ /

noun

1. politeness or courtesy, esp when formal

2. (often plural) an act of politeness

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Other Word Forms

• overcivility noun

Etymology

Origin of civility

1350–1400; Middle English civilite < Middle French < Latin cīvīlitāt- (stem of cīvīlitās ) courtesy. See civil, -ity

Example Sentences

Mr. Cox’s pleas for civility in public discourse have been welcome.

From The Wall Street Journal

“The End of Everything” instructs us that the preservation of our democracy requires constant attention to the norms of civility, respect for lawful authority and a shared commitment to the dignity of every individual.

From The Wall Street Journal

A good teacher will insist on civility but will respect the right of students to challenge dominant ideas and dissent from them.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Let's bring civility and manners back. Ask yourself, are you helping a pregnant woman put her bag in the overhead bin? Are you dressing with respect?"

From BBC

Moments later, the footage jumps to passengers brawling in terminals and shouting at flight attendants before Duffy appears on screen urging travelers to bring bygone civility back to air travel.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• comity
• courtesy
• decorum
• politeness
• propriety
• respect