[gen.tle.man] n, often attrib [ME gentilman] (12c) 1 a: a man of noble or gentle birth b: a man belonging to the landed gentry c (1): a man who combines gentle birth or rank with chivalrous qualities (2): a man whose conduct conforms to a high standard of propriety or correct behavior d (1): a man of independent means who does not engage in any occupation or profession for gain (2): a man who does not engage in a menial occupation or in manual labor for gain
2: valet--often used in the phrase gentleman's gentleman
3: a man of any social class or condition--often used in a courteous reference "show this ~ to a seat" or usu. in the pl. in address "ladies and gentlemen" -- gen.tle.man.like adj -- gen.tle.man.like.ness n