Discourtesy

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /dɪsˈkɜːtəzi/

Definitions

1. Behavior that shows a lack of respect or politeness towards others
2. An act or attitude that is considered impolite or disrespectful in social situations
3. Conduct that fails to observe accepted manners and is perceived as rude or offensive

Etymology: Courtesy came into English from Old French "cortoisie," itself rooted in "cort," the royal or noble court, so a courteous person was originally one who behaved as a courtier should. Discourtesy is simply that word with the negating prefix "dis-" attached, a Latin prefix meaning "apart" or "asunder" that English inherited through Old French and Middle English. The prefix reverses or removes the quality it precedes, so discourtesy names the opposite of courtly behaviour. The construction is plain and transparent, which is why the word needed no special coinage. English speakers have long built pairs like this, with "dis-" forming "dislike," "disobey," and "discomfort" from familiar roots. The noun simply follows the pattern of the base it modifies, so anyone who knows "courtesy" can parse it at once.

Synonyms: rudeness, incivility

Antonyms: courtesy, politeness