What does mannerly mean?
Mannerly is an adjective meaning courteous, polite, and considerate in behavior. It describes a person’s conduct, especially conduct that reflects good upbringing or respect for others: a mannerly apology, a mannerly guest, or a mannerly response to criticism. The word is related to manner, meaning the characteristic way in which a person behaves, but it is more strongly associated with deliberate courtesy and good conduct. Today, mannerly is mostly literary or old-fashioned and is much less common in ordinary conversation than polite, courteous, or well-mannered. Its value as a vocabulary word lies in its formal, slightly elegant tone and in its clear emphasis on socially appropriate behavior. Although it can suggest an especially polished or conventional manner, it does not necessarily imply that the courtesy is insincere; that more negative implication is associated with words such as affected or mannered.
adjectiveHaving or showing good manners; courteous, polite, and considerate in one’s behavior.
- Well-behaved, courteous, and considerate in manner.
"The children were mannerly and considerate guests."
"She gave a mannerly reply even though she disagreed with the speaker."
"His mannerly conduct earned the respect of the older residents."
Mannerly turns “good manners” into a compact, old-fashioned compliment: it describes someone whose courtesy is not merely expected but noticeable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mannerly come from?
Mannerly was formed in English from manner and the suffix -ly, in the sense of “in a proper or orderly manner.” Its development reflects the older English use of manner for a person’s way of behaving, not only for an etiquette or mode of conduct. The word belongs to the same broad family as mannered, mannerism, and mannerist, all of which derive from the same historical root.
Related word forms
How mannerly is actually used
Mannerly is literary and somewhat old-fashioned; it is less common in everyday speech than polite, courteous, or well-mannered.
Easily confused with mannerly
Mannerly means courteous and well-behaved, whereas mannered can mean affected or artificial in one’s manner.