Couths

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Having good manners and refinement; possessing the quality of being cultured and sophisticated in behavior; displaying a sense of social grace and poise in interactions with others
2. Exhibiting a level of courtesy and etiquette, often associated with a polished and courteous demeanor; being well-mannered and socially adept in various situations; embodying elegance and propriety in one's actions
3. Being refined and socially competent; demonstrating a pleasant and cultured demeanor in social settings; contributing positively to one’s impression through good behavior and manners

Etymology: "Couths" is the plural of "couth," an adjective meaning refined in manners. "Couth" descends from Old English "cūþ," meaning "known" or "familiar," the past participle of "cunnan," "to know," and it is a doublet of "could." The positive sense is the surprise, though. "Couth" was back-formed from "uncouth," so the familiar word for polished manners was made by stripping the negative prefix off an older word meaning awkward or unrefined.

Synonyms: refined, polished, cultured, civilized, sophisticated

Antonyms: uncouth, rude, crude, uncivilized, boorish