savoir-vivre

[sav-wahr-vee-vruh, -veev, sa-vwar-vee-vr^uh]

noun

1. knowledge of the world and the ways or usages of polite society.

savoir-vivre

/ ˈsævwɑːˈviːvrə /

noun

1. familiarity with the customs of good society; breeding

Word History and Origins

Origin of savoir-vivre¹

1745–55; < French: literally, knowing how to live

Word History and Origins

Origin of savoir-vivre¹

French, literally: a knowing how to live

Related Words

• composure 
• elegance 
• finesse 
• poise 
• refinement 
• tact 
• worldliness www.thesaurus.com