Civilities: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originated from the Latin 'civilitas', which referred to the condition of being a citizen and the accompanying social behaviors.
• It developed in the late Middle Ages, evolving to represent courtesy and politeness in social interactions.
• Over time, its meaning expanded to include the conventions and manners expected in society.

Cultural Importance

• In various cultures, civilities are crucial for social harmony, guiding interactions in formal settings like business meetings and diplomatic relations.
• Different cultures have unique rituals of civility; for example, bowing is a common form of greeting in Japan, signaling respect.
• In Western societies, shaking hands is a traditional form of civil greeting, symbolizing mutual respect and agreement.

Psychology

• Practicing civilities can enhance one’s mood, contributing to an overall sense of well-being and happiness.
• Research shows that acts of civility can lead to a ripple effect, encouraging others to behave kindly in return.
• Politeness can reduce social anxiety, helping individuals feel more comfortable in group settings.

Literature

• Many classic works explore the theme of civility, often contrasting polite society with the chaos of human instincts, as seen in Shakespeare’s plays.
• Civility plays a crucial role in character development; characters who uphold it often achieve greater social standing or personal fulfillment.
• Famous authors like Jane Austen often highlighted civil behaviors in her novels, using them to critique societal norms.

Modern Usage

• In today’s fast-paced world, civilities are sometimes viewed as outdated, yet many advocates emphasize their vital role in fostering community and connection.
• The 'civil discourse' movement encourages respectful dialogue in political discussions, highlighting the importance of civility in democracy.
• Social media has transformed how civilities are expressed, leading to debates about online etiquette and respect in digital communications.

At rank #28,458, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28455 prouder
• 28456 bicameral
• 28457 unfocused
• 28458 civilities
• 28459 lingo
• 28460 regimented
• 28461 pertinence
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