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noun Uncommon

etiquette

EHT-ih-keht

Etiquette (noun) means the accepted rules of polite, correct behaviour in social or professional situations. Example: “It's good etiquette to thank the host before you leave.”

noun
1
The accepted rules of polite, correct behaviour in social or professional situations.
"It's good etiquette to thank the host before you leave."
"Business etiquette varies a lot between cultures."

How to use etiquette

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe unwritten rules of polite behaviour expected in a particular setting.

Common pairings
dining etiquette business etiquette proper etiquette a breach of etiquette

Word forms

etiquettes plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

It's good _____ to thank the host before you leave.

Etymology

From French étiquette, originally a small ticket or label — the French royal court at Versailles used these little cards to remind courtiers of the rules of behaviour, and the word grew to mean the rules themselves. It's a doublet of the word "ticket".

Origin: French

Rhymes for etiquette

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Frequently asked questions

What does “etiquette” mean?

The word “etiquette” means the accepted rules of polite, correct behaviour in social or professional situations. In plain terms, the unwritten rules of polite behaviour expected in a particular setting.

How do you pronounce “etiquette”?

“Etiquette” is pronounced EHT-ih-keht (/ˈɛt.ɪˌkɛt/ in IPA).

How do you use “etiquette” in a sentence?

Here is “etiquette” used in a sentence: “It's good etiquette to thank the host before you leave.”

What part of speech is “etiquette”?

“Etiquette” is a noun.

Where does the word “etiquette” come from?

The word “etiquette” comes from French.

Is “etiquette” a common word?

“Etiquette” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial