Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - gentleman

 noun  Usage: often attributive  Etymology: Middle English gentilman  Date: 12th century  1.  a. a man of noble or gentle birth  b. a man belonging to the landed gentry  c.  (1) a man who combines gentle birth or rank with chivalrous qualities  (2) a man whose conduct conforms to a high standard of propriety or correct behavior  d.  (1) a man of independent means who does not engage in any occupation or profession for gain  (2) a man who does not engage in a menial occupation or in manual labor for gain  2. valet — often used in the phrase ~'s ~  3. a man of any social class or condition — often used in a courteous reference show this ~ to a seat or usually in the plural in address ladies and gentlemen  • ~like adjective  • ~likeness noun