adj.
Pronunciation: jen- ' t ē l
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle French gentil gentle
Date: 1599
1 a : having an aristocratic quality or flavor : STYLISH b : of or relating to the gentry or upper class c : elegant or graceful in manner, appearance, or shape d : free from vulgarity or rudeness : POLITE
2 a : maintaining or striving to maintain the appearance of superior or middle-class social status or respectability b (1) : marked by false delicacy, prudery, or affectation (2) : conventionally or insipidly pretty <timid and genteel artistic style>
– gen · teel · ly \ - ' t ē (l)-l ē \ adverb
– gen · teel · ness noun