genteel
/dʒɛnˈtil/
adjective
- Polite, refined, or elegant, often in an exaggerated or old-fashioned way.
- His genteel manners made him popular at formal dinner parties.
- She spoke with a genteel accent that reminded everyone of old movies.
- The hotel had a genteel charm, with lace curtains and antique furniture.
- Trying too hard to appear upper-class or sophisticated.
- He put on a genteel voice when talking to the wealthy guests.
- The neighborhood had a genteel air, but everyone knew it was just a facade.
- Their genteel attempts at sophistication felt a bit forced.