1. plural of politeness; courteous behaviors or expressions of courtesy
Usage: formal

Examples

• The dinner party was filled with small politenesses and gracious conversation.
• She appreciated the various politenesses shown by her hosts during her visit.
• The children were taught to observe the usual politenesses when meeting adults.
• His letter contained all the expected politenesses but lacked genuine warmth.
• The diplomatic meeting began with the customary politenesses before serious negotiations.
• Despite their disagreement, they maintained the social politenesses throughout the evening.