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Definition of politeness

politeness

/pəˈlaɪt.nəs/
po · lite · ness
Adverb:politely
•
Plural:politenesses
•
Adjective:polite
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politeness Lexical Profile

politeness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people; good manners and social courtesy.

Example

"Her unfailing politeness won over even the most difficult clients at the firm."

2

A courteous remark, gesture, or act (often used in the plural).

Example

"After exchanging the usual social politenesses, the delegates turned to the main agenda."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for politeness

• Nearby Words

politburo
polite
politely
politeness
politic
political
politically

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'polite' plus the suffix '-ness'. 'Polite' derives from the Latin 'politus', the past participle of 'polire', meaning 'to polish or make smooth', reflecting how refined manners were metaphorically viewed as a polished character.

Cite this Entry

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