Dictionary Home » Dictionary Definitions » comity

comity

The definition of comity means politeness or mutual courtesy.

(noun)

The peaceful coexistence of most of the nations in North America is an example of comity.
An example of comity is when a classroom of children are all happily involved in a project.

See comity in Webster's New World College Dictionary

courteous behavior; politeness; civility
comity of nations
agreement among cooperating Christian denominations to avoid duplication of churches, missions, etc. in specific areas
Law the principle by which the courts of one jurisdiction may give effect to the laws and decisions of another, or may stay their own proceedings in deference to those in another jurisdiction

Origin: ME comite, association < L comitas < comis, polite, kind; earlier cosmis, prob. < co- (see com-), with + *smi-s < IE base *smei-, to smile

See comity in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. com·i·ties

An atmosphere of social harmony.
See comity of nations.
The principle by which the courts of one jurisdiction may accede or give effect to the laws or decisions of another.

Origin:

Origin: Latin cōmitās

Origin: , from cōmis, friendly; see smei- in Indo-European roots

Learn more about comity

comity business definition

comity legal definition

comity in a sentence

link/cite print suggestion box