[po.lite] adj po.lit.er ; -est [L politus, fr. pp. of polire] (1501) 1 a: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of advanced culture b: marked by refined cultural interests and pursuits esp. in arts and belles lettres
2. a: showing or characterized by correct social usage b: marked by an appearance of consideration, tact, deference, or courtesy c: marked by a lack of roughness or crudities "~ literature" syn see civil -- po.lite.ly adv -- po.lite.ness n