Gentleman
ˈdʒentlmən
Definitions
2 meaningsA man of good social standing, traditionally characterized by courteous behavior, refined manners, and often wealth or noble birth.
ˈdʒentlmən
A man of good social position, especially one of wealth or high status.
He was a true gentleman, always opening doors for others.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who's always polite, helpful, and well-mannered, like the guy who always offers you his seat on the bus. That's a gentleman! Or, how about that character in the classic novel who’s always impeccably dressed and speaks with a soft voice?
👶 For kids: A gentleman is a nice man who is polite and respectful to others. He knows how to be kind.
More Examples
The old gentleman sat reading his newspaper in the park.
The company was founded by a group of gentlemen who shared a vision.
How It's Used
"The gentlemen gathered at the club for a game of cards."
"In Victorian England, the term often denoted a man of leisure and breeding."
A man whose behavior conforms to a high standard of propriety, courtesy, and chivalry; a man of honor.
ˈdʒentlmən
A man of honorable or chivalrous conduct.
He was a gentleman, always putting the needs of others before his own.
💡 Simply: A gentleman also describes someone who's super honest and always does the right thing, even if it's not easy. It's like your favorite superhero who always saves the day!
👶 For kids: A gentleman can also mean a man who is very kind and always does the right thing.
More Examples
Her father taught her that a gentleman always kept his promises.
He was a true gentleman, even in the face of adversity.
How It's Used
"He was a gentleman in the way he handled the difficult situation."
"The hero behaved with the code of a true gentleman."
Idioms & expressions
Ladies and gentlemen
A formal address to a group of people, typically at the beginning of a speech or event.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the awards ceremony."
A gentleman's agreement
An agreement that is based on trust and good faith rather than a legally binding contract.
"They had a gentleman's agreement to split the profits."
From Middle English gentilman, gentil homme, from Old French gentilz hom, meaning "of good family/birth" or "noble man." Over time, the meaning shifted from primarily referring to noble birth to encompass qualities of courtesy, respect, and refined behavior.
The term 'gentleman' was historically associated with landed gentry and social status, evolving to encompass behavioral traits.
Memory tip
Think of a man holding the door open, offering a helping hand, and always being polite and respectful.
Word Origin
"of good birth/noble"