polite society

English

Noun

polite society (uncountable)

1. The elite or upper crust of society.

   The members of polite society had become inbred in behavior, living by outdated rules and concerned with dusty glories and old feuds.

2. That portion of society that is concerned with (or cares about) etiquette and proper behavior, with politeness.

   His antics might be accepted by backwoods dwellers, but in polite society he appeared uncouth.