urbane

/ɜːˈbeɪn/

Group 12Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Suave, courteous, and refined in manner
GRE

Example in Context

The ambassador's urbane demeanor and effortless wit made him a fixture of the capital's diplomatic social circuit.

Synonyms

polishedsuavesophisticated

Etymology

Originally meaning 'of the city', indicating polished sophistication.

  • urbanus (Latin) — of the city

Memory Aid

🧠Sounds like “your brain”

Picture someone with a SUPER SMART BRAIN wearing a tuxedo and sipping tea at a fancy gala!

Visual Association

🍷A well-dressed person smoothly navigating a crowded cocktail party, exuding charm and elegance.

Semantic Clusters

🛡️ Careful & Cautious🏰 Social Status & Class

Synonym Groups

⚖️ Friendliness Spectrum⚖️ Formality Spectrum⚖️ Social Connection Spectrum⚖️ Elegance vs Clumsiness

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “urbane” mean on the GRE?

urbane (adjective) means “Suave, courteous, and refined in manner”. The ambassador's urbane demeanor and effortless wit made him a fixture of the capital's diplomatic social circuit.

How to remember “urbane” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “urbane” sounds like “your brain”. Picture someone with a SUPER SMART BRAIN wearing a tuxedo and sipping tea at a fancy gala!

What are synonyms for “urbane”?

Common synonyms: polished, suave, sophisticated.