Mannerly

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈmænəɹli/

Definitions

1. Exhibiting good manners and polite behavior in social situations
2. Showing courteous and respectful conduct consistent with proper etiquette
3. Demonstrating refined and considerate behavior toward others

Etymology: "Mannerly" is a plain formation: the noun "manner" with the adjective-forming suffix "-ly," which turns a noun into an adjective meaning "having the qualities of" or "in the manner of," as in "kingly" or "motherly." The Middle English form "manerely" shows the same pattern at work, joining "manere" (behaviour, conduct, bearing) to the suffix, so the word began as something like "of good manner" before it narrowed to courtesy alone. The older noun carried more than etiquette. In Middle English, "manere" could mean kind, type, or way of doing something, and the adjective inherited that breadth. "Mannerly" therefore described anyone whose conduct showed a proper bearing, not only someone who knew which fork to use.

Synonyms: courteous, polite, refined, civil, decent

Antonyms: rude, impolite, unmannerly, discourteous, boorish