gentleman

gen-tle-man · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A polite or formal way of referring to a man.

  2. 2.

    A man who is courteous and well-mannered.

  3. 3.

    (Historical) A man of good social position, especially one of wealth and leisure.

  4. 4.

    (plural, in address) Used to address a group of men.

Forms

plural: gentlemen

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    ladies and gentlemen — Formal address to an audience.
  • •
    gentleman's agreement — An informal agreement based on trust.
  • •
    a gentleman and a scholar — A compliment to a helpful person.
  • •
    gentleman's club — A private club for men.
  • •
    gentleman caller — A male suitor.

Related words

Antonyms: lady, woman
See also: gentlemen, lady, man, sir
Synonyms: gent, man, sir

Etymology

From Middle English gentilman, from gentil ("well-born, noble") + man. From Old French gentil, from Latin gentilis ("of the same clan").