Civilness

/ˈsɪvəl.nəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being civil; courtesy, politeness, and respectful behavior in social interactions.

Etymology

From the adjective 'civil' (Latin 'civilis,' relating to citizens) plus the suffix '-ness' to form an abstract noun indicating a quality or state.

Kelly Says

While 'civility' is the more common word today, 'civilness' shows that English speakers have long tried different ways to name the quality of being polite—and both lead us back to the Latin idea of proper citizen behavior.

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