# gentlemanly

/ˈdʒɛnəɫmənɫi/ (US) · /dʒˈɛntəlmənli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gentlemanly
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

polite, kind and respectful in the way you treat other people. You use it to describe a man with very good, traditional manners.

For teachers: courteous, considerate and honourable in manner, conforming to traditional ideals of a gentleman's behaviour.

## Examples

- He gives his seat to others in a gentlemanly way.
- He made a gentlemanly gesture and carried her heavy suitcase to the platform.
- Despite the heated debate, he kept a gentlemanly tone, listening patiently and conceding points with quiet grace.

## Synonyms

courteous, polite, respectful, chivalrous

## Antonyms

rude, impolite, discourteous, uncivil

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies ('gentlemanly behaviour'); also used after linking verbs such as 'be'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.