01 n. The state of society in which the relations and duties of a citizen are recognized and obeyed; a state of civilization.
pl.
Civilities ((#))
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1.
The state of society in which the relations and duties of a citizen are recognized and obeyed; a state of civilization.[Obs.]“Monarchies have risen from barbarrism to civility, and fallen again to ruin.” — Sir J. Davies.“The gradual depature of all deeper signification from the word civility has obliged the creation of another word -- civilization.” — Trench.
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2.
A civil office, or a civil process[Obs.]“To serve in a civility.” — Latimer.
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3.
Courtesy; politeness; kind attention; good breeding; a polite act or expression.“The insolent civility of a proud man is, if possible, more shocking than his rudeness could be.” — Chesterfield.“The sweet civilities of life.” — Dryden.
Syn.
Urbanity; affability; complaisance.