urbanity

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   polished, refined, and courteous behavior or manner

   He welcomed political opponents with an urbanity that immediately eased the tension.

2. 2
   noun

   the quality or character of being urban or of life in a city

   The district combines village intimacy with the urbanity of a major capital.

From Middle English urbanitie, through French urbanite, from Latin urbanitas, based on urbanus ('of a city; cultivated, refined') and ultimately urbs ('city'). The courtesy sense reflects the old association of city manners with polish and sophistication.

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