ˈmænə n. 1 a
way a
thing is
done or happens (always dresses in
that manner). 2 (in pl.) a
social behaviour (it is
bad manners to stare). b
polite or well-bred behaviour (he
has no manners). c modes of
life; conditions of
society. 3 a person's
outward bearing, way of
speaking, etc. (has an
imperious manner). 4 a a
style in
literature, art, etc. (in
the manner of Rembrandt). b =
MANNERISM 2a. 5
archaic a kind or
sort (what manner of
man is he?). øall manner of
many different kinds
of.
comedy of manners
satirical portrayal of social behaviour,
esp. of the upper classes. in a manner of speaking in
some sense; to some
extent; so to
speak. manner of
means see MEANS. to the manner
born 1 colloq.
naturally at
ease in a specified job,
situation, etc. 2 destined by
birth to
follow a
custom or way of life (Shakesp.
Hamlet I.
iv. 17). øømannerless adj. (in sense 2b of n.). [ME f. AF manere, OF maniere ult. f. L manuarius of the
hand (manus)]
