Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Gentility
Gen-til′i-ty
,Noun.
[L.
gentilitas
the relationship of those who belong to the same clan, also, heathenism: cf. F. gentilité
heathenism. See Gentile
.] 1.
Good extraction; dignity of birth.
Macaulay.
He . . . mines my
gentility
with my education. Shakespeare
2.
The quality or qualities appropriate to those who are well born, as self-respect, dignity, courage, courtesy, politeness of manner, a graceful and easy mien and behavior, etc.; good breeding.
3.
The class in society who are, or are expected to be, genteel; the gentry.
[R.]
Sir J. Davies.
4.
Paganism; heathenism.
[Obs.]
Hooker.
Webster 1828 Edition
Gentility
GENTIL'ITY
, n.1.
Politeness of manners; easy, graceful behavior; the manners of well bred people; genteelness.2.
Good extraction; dignity of birth.3.
Gracefulness of mien.4.
Gentry. [Not in use.]5.
Paganism; heathenism. [Not in use.]