Gentility

B2 16+

Pronunciation: /dʒenˈtɪləti/

Definitions of gentility

noun the members of the upper class or gentry

Example Sentences

A1 She admired the gentility of the old man who always greeted her with a smile.

A2 The hotel staff treated their guests with gentility and respect.

B1 The novel depicted the struggles of a young woman trying to maintain her gentility in a changing world.

B2 The aristocratic family prided themselves on their gentility and impeccable manners.

C1 The artist's work was a reflection of the gentility and refinement of high society.

C2 The play explored the complexities of gentility and class distinctions in 19th century England.

Examples of gentility in a Sentence

formal The family's gentility was evident in their impeccable manners and refined taste.

informal She carried herself with a certain gentility that set her apart from the rest of the group.

slang Despite his rough appearance, he had a surprising gentility about him.

figurative The gentility of her spirit shone through in the way she treated others with kindness and respect.

Grammatical Forms of gentility

plural

gentilities

comparative

more gentile

superlative

most gentile

present tense

gentilizes

future tense

will gentilize

perfect tense

has gentilized

continuous tense

is gentilizing

singular

gentility

positive degree

gentile

infinitive

to gentilize

gerund

gentilizing

participle

gentilized

Origin and Evolution of gentility

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'gentility' originated from the Latin word 'gentilis', meaning belonging to a gens or family.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe belonging to a noble or aristocratic family, the meaning of 'gentility' has evolved to also refer to refinement, social status, and good manners.