ladylike
UK[ˈleɪ.di.laɪk]US[ˈleɪ.di.laɪk]
adj
behaving in a polite, quiet, and dignified way that was traditionally considered typical of or appropriate for a lady.
adj
characteristic of or suitable for a lady; refined, elegant.
Morpheme Breakdown
lady
like
lady
loaf-kneader, mistress of a household
like
body, form, like
Etymology
the word "ladylike" is a transparent compound formed within english from the native elements "lady" and "like." the term "lady" itself has a fascinating journey, originating from old english hlǣfdīge, a compound of hlāf ("loaf") and dīge ("kneader"), literally meaning "loaf-kneader," which evolved to signify the female head of a household. the suffix "-like," from old english līc ("body, form"), is used to form adjectives meaning "having the form or characteristics of." therefore, "ladylike" literally means "having the form or characteristics of a lady," with its modern sense focusing on the refined manners and decorum historically associated with women of high social standing.
Analysis
Structure: lady + like
lady (from old english hlǣfdīge, meaning "loaf-kneader, mistress of a household") + like (from old english līc, meaning "body, form, like")
Examples
her ladylike demeanor impressed everyone at the formal dinner.
it was considered ladylike to speak softly and avoid boisterous laughter.
she gave a ladylike wave from across the room.