Politer

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Displaying a heightened level of courtesy and respect in interactions with others
2. Showing an increased degree of courtesy and consideration towards others
3. Exhibiting a greater sense of respectful behavior in communication and conduct

Etymology: "Politer" is simply the comparative of "polite", so the story belongs to its base word. "Polite" comes from Latin "polītus", meaning "polished", the past participle of "poliō", "to polish or smooth". That is the same root that gives English "polish", and the link is literal: a polished surface was smooth and refined, and the sense was carried over to a refined manner in a person's behaviour. Used of people, "polite" describes someone whose manners have been smoothed and finished, much as a stone is rubbed until it shines. "Politer" applies that comparison: one person, or one way of acting, is more refined and courteous than another. The form itself is regular, built with the ending "-er" as in "politer" for any adjective of this kind, so the interest lies in the metaphor of polishing behind the base word rather than in the comparative.

Synonyms: more courteous, more civil, more respectful

Antonyms: ruder, impolite, disrespectful