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Definition of incivility

incivility

/ˌɪn.sɪˈvɪl.ə.ti/
in · ci · vil · i · ty
Adverb:uncivilly
•
Plural:incivilities
•
Adjective:uncivil
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incivility Lexical Profile

incivility Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Rude, discourteous, or disrespectful behavior or speech toward others.

Example

"The moderator intervened when the debate descended into personal insults and open incivility."

2

A specific rude or discourteous remark or act.

Example

"She patiently ignored the petty incivilities of the frustrated passengers waiting in line."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for incivility

• Nearby Words

incite
incitement
inciter
incivility
inclement
inclination
incline

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Middle French incivilité or Late Latin incivilitatem ('discourtesy, rudeness'), derived from Latin incivilis ('uncivil, unmannerly'), from in- ('not') and civilis ('courteous, befitting a citizen').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Incivility. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/incivility
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