a. [ F. gentil noble, pretty, graceful. See Gentle. ] 1. Possessing or exhibiting the qualities popularly regarded as belonging to high birth and breeding; free from vulgarity, or lowness of taste or behavior; adapted to a refined or cultivated taste; polite; well-bred; as, genteel company, manners, address. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Graceful in mien or form; elegant in appearance, dress, or manner; as, the lady has a genteel person. Law. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Suited to the position of lady or a gentleman; as, to live in a genteel allowance.

Syn. -- Polite; well-bred; refined; polished. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Somewhat genteel. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. In a genteel manner. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. The quality of being genteel.