genteel

/dʒɛnˈtiːl/adjective

Overly polite and refined in manner, often in a way that seems artificial or old-fashioned.

Example sentence

“The tea room had a genteel atmosphere, with lace tablecloths and hushed voices.”

Now almost always ironic, mocking strained refinement. 'Genteel poverty' is the classic phrase: keeping up appearances on too little money.

Related words

gentleA person born into a noble or upper-class family.genialWarm, friendly, and pleasant in manner.genuineComing from the true or original source; real and not fake.generousHappy to give freely, especially money or help, and often more than expected.geographyThe subject that studies the earth's surface, its features, and how people interact with them.generationAll the people born around the same time, who often share similar experiences and culture.