urbane
Say it: ur-BAYN /əːˈbeɪn/ · adjective
What “urbane” means
Polite, polished and confident around other people.
More precisely: Courteous, refined and confident, especially in social situations.
Example: “The urbane host moved through the crowd, introducing everyone by name.”
When to use it
A formal, approving word for someone who handles social situations with relaxed confidence, good manners and sophistication.
Similar words
suave, sophisticated, polished
Where it comes from
From Latin urbanus, 'of the city', from urbs 'city'.
Quick check
At a formal dinner, a guest puts strangers at ease with graceful introductions and effortless conversation. The guest is…
aloof or urbane?
Show the answer
urbane
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