WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Gen*til"i*ty
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. gentilitas the relationship of those who belong to the same clan, also, heathenism: cf. F. gentilit? heathenism. See Gentile.]
Definition : 1. Good extraction; dignity of birth. Macaulay. He . . . mines my gentility with my education. Shak.

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.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913