Politesse - a podcast by Word of the Day

Politesse is a noun that refers to formal politeness.

The Latin word politus (po LEE toos) means ‘civil’ or ‘polite.’ It is the basis of words like ‘politics’ and it’s used to indicate a politeness reserved for formal settings. For example: I was afraid that Jeremy would embarrass us at the governor’s mansion — especially with his wild sense of humor. He’s not familiar with the kind of politesse that’s expected at formal gatherings.

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