gentilesse

noun

gen·​ti·​lesse ˌjen-tə-ˈles How to pronounce gentilesse (audio)
Synonyms of gentilessenext
: decorum of conduct befitting a member of the gentry

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, "aristocratic birth, ideal characteristics of the wellborn," borrowed from Anglo-French, from gentil gentle entry 1 + -esse, suffix of abstract nouns (going back to Latin -itia)

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gentilesse was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near gentilesse

Gentileschi

gentilesse

gentilic

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Gentilesse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gentilesse. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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