polite — having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people
Pronunciation (IPA): /pəˈlaɪt/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother always told me it's not polite to point at people.
- He gave a polite smile even though the joke wasn't funny at all.
- The waiter was so polite that he apologized for the rain outside.
polite
ADJECTIVE[/pəˈlaɪt/]
having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people
He gave a polite bow before entering the tea master's room.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin politus, originally meaning 'polished' or 'smooth'. The sense evolved metaphorically from the refinement of physical surfaces to the refinement of behavior and manners, eventually acquiring the meaning of 'courteous' or 'well-mannered'.
Breakdown
Latin politus (polished, refined) + -e (adjective suffix) = polite. The root politus derives from polire (to polish or smooth), suggesting the metaphorical smoothing of rough behavior into courteous conduct.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother always told me it's not polite to point at people.”
“He gave a polite smile even though the joke wasn't funny at all.”
“The waiter was so polite that he apologized for the rain outside.”
“In polite company, we don't discuss politics or personal finances.”
📚Related Words
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