Civility comes from the word civis, which in Latin means "citizen". Merriam Webster defines civility as civilized conduct or a polite act or expression. Historically, civility also meant training in the humanities.

What does civility definition mean?

1a : civilized conduct especially : courtesy, politeness bemoaned the decline of civility in our politics. b : a polite act or expression lacked the little civilities and hypocrisies of political society— Roy Jenkins The men briefly exchanged civilities before the meeting began. 2 archaic : training in the humanities.

What is an example of civility?

The definition of civility refers to politeness or etiquette. When you do not really like someone very much but you manage to treat him politely, greeting him and behaving in a socially acceptable way, this is an example of civility.