Civilisation: meaning, definitions and examples

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civilisation

 

[ ˌsɪv.ə.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

modern society

Civilisation refers to an advanced stage of human social development and organization, usually characterized by complex cultural, technological, and political structures. It involves the establishment of cities, writing systems, art, and other cultural achievements.

Synonyms

community, culture, society

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians were known for their highly developed civilisation.
  • The collapse of the Mayan civilisation is still a topic of debate among historians.
Context #2 | Noun

polite behavior

Civilisation can also refer to the quality of being polite and well-mannered in social interactions. It involves showing respect, consideration, and courtesy towards others.

Synonyms

courtesy, manners, politeness

Examples of usage

  • His civilisation towards the guests impressed everyone at the party.
  • She always conducts herself with great civilisation in public.

Translations

Translations of the word "civilisation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 civilização

🇮🇳 सभ्यता

🇩🇪 Zivilisation

🇮🇩 peradaban

🇺🇦 цивілізація

🇵🇱 cywilizacja

🇯🇵 文明 (ぶんめい)

🇫🇷 civilisation

🇪🇸 civilización

🇹🇷 medeniyet

🇰🇷 문명

🇸🇦 حضارة

🇨🇿 civilizace

🇸🇰 civilizácia

🇨🇳 文明 (wénmíng)

🇸🇮 civilizacija

🇮🇸 siðmenning

🇰🇿 өркениет

🇬🇪 ცივილიზაცია

🇦🇿 sivilizasiya

🇲🇽 civilización

Word origin

The word 'civilisation' originated from the Latin word 'civilis', meaning 'relating to citizens or the state'. It first appeared in English in the 18th century, during the Enlightenment period when there was a focus on progress, reason, and cultural development. The concept of civilisation has evolved over time to encompass different aspects of human society and behavior.

See also: civil, civilian, civilianization, civilianizing, civility, civilization, civilly, incivility, uncivil, uncivilized.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,449, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.