politely
UK[pəˈlaɪtli]US[pəˈlaɪtli]
adv
In a way that shows good manners and respect for the feelings of others.
Morpheme Breakdown
polite
ly
polite
ly
in a manner of.
Etymology
The adverb "politely" is formed by adding the common Germanic adverbial suffix "-ly" to the adjective "polite." The core adjective "polite" entered English from Latin politus, the past participle of polire, meaning "to polish, smooth, or refine." This literal sense of polishing a surface was metaphorically extended in Late Latin to describe refined character and elegant social behavior. Thus, the modern meaning of "politely" as "in a refined, courteous manner" retains this ancient metaphorical link between physical smoothness and social sophistication.
Analysis
Structure: polite + ly
- polite: From Latin politus (polished, refined). The root sense is "made smooth or polished," which evolved to mean "refined in manners."
- ly: From Old English -līce (forming adverbs from adjectives). It is an adverbial suffix meaning "in a manner of."
Examples
She politely declined the invitation, citing a prior engagement.
He waited politely for his turn to speak during the meeting.
The child politely said "thank you" after receiving the gift.