adj.
Pronunciation: ' si-v ə l
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin civilis, from civis
Date: 14th century
1 a : of or relating to citizens b : of or relating to the state or its citizenry < civil strife>
2 a : CIVILIZED < civil society> b : adequate in courtesy and politeness : MANNERLY <a civil question>
3 a : of, relating to, or based on civil law b : relating to private rights and to remedies sought by action or suit distinct from criminal proceedings c : established by law
4 : of, relating to, or involving the general public, their activities, needs, or ways, or civic affairs as distinguished from special (as military or religious) affairs
5 of time : based on the mean sun and legally recognized for use in ordinary affairs
synonyms CIVIL , POLITE , COURTEOUS , GALLANT , CHIVALROUS mean observant of the forms required by good breeding. CIVIL often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness <owed the questioner a civil reply>. POLITE commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality <if you can't be pleasant, at least be polite >. COURTEOUS implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness <clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers>. GALLANT and CHIVALROUS imply courteous attentiveness especially to women. GALLANT suggests spirited and dashing behavior and ornate expressions of courtesy <a gallant suitor of the old school>. CHIVALROUS suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior <a chivalrous display of duty>.