Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
GENTEELITY, n. A Sc. form and usage of Eng. gentility. See P.L.D. § 45.
1. As in Eng. Gen.Sc., obsol.Sc. 1819 Scott Leg. Montrose ii.:
If ye speak this in the way of vituperation, as meaning to impugn my honour or genteelity.Lth. 1914 C. P. Slater Marget Pow ix.:
It's ower much to pay for genteelity, I would think.
2. Gentlefolk, people of gentle birth (Sh.10, wm.Sc.1, Arg.3 rare, Uls.4 1954). Sometimes in pl. Obs. in Eng. since early 17th c. in this sense.Gall. 1901 Trotter Gall. Gossip 1:
For the half o' the natives wus Eerish . . . an' the lave o' them wus gentilities yt keepit him rinnin' efter them nicht an' day.
