The word "gentleman" is spelled with a "g" followed by "e-n-t-l-e-m-a-n". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˈdʒɛnt(ə)lmən/. The "dj" [dʒ] sound at the beginning of the word is followed by an "e" [ɛ] sound, then a "n" [n] sound. The combination "tl" [tl] produces an unaspirated "t" sound [t] and a barely audible "l" [l]. The final syllable "man" [mən] ends with an unstressed "uh" [ə] sound.
A gentleman is a term commonly used to describe a man who displays refined conduct, manners, and behavior that is typically considered admirable and polite within society. This term reflects a higher standard of character and is often associated with integrity, chivalry, and respect for others.
A gentleman is known for demonstrating courteousness and kindness towards those around him, regardless of their social status. He embraces a sense of responsibility and takes pride in behaving in a manner that is considerate and honorable. A gentleman shows grace under pressure and handles difficult situations with composure and tact, avoiding rudeness or inappropriate behavior.
In addition to his demeanor, a gentleman is also recognized for his impeccable personal appearance. He pays attention to his grooming, wearing well-tailored clothing and accessorizing appropriately. He exudes confidence and self-assurance without being arrogant or boastful.
Furthermore, a gentleman exhibits empathy and compassion by treating women with courtesy and respect. He acts as a protector and guardian, ensuring their safety and well-being. A gentleman also upholds traditional values and qualities such as loyalty, honesty, and sincerity in his relationships.
Overall, a gentleman is someone who exemplifies the best qualities that society admires in a man. He radiates a certain elegance, sophistication, and refinement, while consistently displaying kindness, consideration, and courtesy towards others.
In a general sense, every educated person above a labourer, an artisan, or a tradesman; an individual possessed of the conduct, character, habits, and outward appearance which belong, or are expected to belong, to persons born and educated in a high social position; a man in any station of life who is possessed of good breeding and refined manners, strict integrity and honour, kindness of heart, and suchlike qualities; in a limited sense, a person of fortune and good family, whether titled or not; one who bears a coat of arms: a term of complaisance or respect, as in the plural-gentlemen, when addressing a number of persons.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word gentleman derives from the Old French term gentil homme. The term gentil originally meant noble or of noble birth, coming from the Latin word gentilis, meaning of the same gens or clan. Over time, the meaning of gentil developed to signify well-born or noble in character rather than simply noble in birth. The addition of homme in Old French further emphasized the meaning of gentleman as a noble and honorable person. The term later passed into English as gentleman.