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Definition of polite

polite

/pəˈlaɪt/
po · lite
Adverb:politely
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polite Lexical Profile

polite Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having or showing behavior that is respectful, courteous, and considerate of other people.

Example

"The receptionist gave a polite smile and offered to help us find the conference room."

2

Relating to or characteristic of cultured, refined, or upper-class society and its standards of taste.

Example

"Such controversial topics were rarely discussed openly in polite society during the nineteenth century."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for polite

• Nearby Words

polished
polisher
politburo
polite
politely
politeness
politic

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Latin 'politus', the past participle of 'polire' (meaning 'to smooth' or 'to polish'). The literal sense of being physically smoothed gradually shifted to the figurative sense of having refined, cultured manners.

Cite this Entry

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