polite

American  

[puh-lahyt] / pəˈlaɪt /

adjective

politer, politest

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.

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polite British  

/ 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

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Related Words

See civil.

Other Word Forms

• politely adverb
• politeness noun
• superpolite adjective
• superpoliteness noun

Etymology

Origin of polite

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin polītus, past participle of polīre “to polish”; polish

Example Sentences

Unlike some judges, who may lose patience while grilling attorneys, Eaton is polite to the lawyers appearing before him and speaks with a warmth in his voice.

From The Wall Street Journal

Violetta, who could not join polite society, now reigns in the canon.

From The Wall Street Journal

At a packed wedding reception, where a couple is making the rounds and guests are caught up in the moment, slipping out unnoticed isn’t just acceptable—it might be the most polite option.

From The Wall Street Journal

A quick drink, polite conversation, a mutual understanding that we tried.

From Los Angeles Times

But Michael insists that his behind-the-scenes discussions with Amodei were always polite and cordial.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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