bon ton

[bon ton, bawn tawn]

noun

1. good or elegant form or style.

2. something regarded as fashionably correct.

   The bon ton in this circle is to dress well and know influential people.

3. fashionable society.

bon ton

/ bɔ̃ tɔ̃ /

noun

1. sophisticated manners or breeding

2. fashionable society

Word History and Origins

Origin of bon ton¹

1765–75; < French: literally, good tone. See boon ², tone

Word History and Origins

Origin of bon ton¹

literally: good tone

Related Words

• civility 
• decency 
• decorum 
• fitness 
• rightness