American Dictionary

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Definition civil in American English

civil adjective

adjective
/ˈsɪvɪl/
1

polite, especially in a formal way and without being friendly

Example

He could barely bring himself to be civil to them.

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Example

I intend to sue him in civil court.

Example

He will begin civil proceedings this week.

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3

relating to the people of a country, especially when they are protesting or fighting about something

Example

Reports of civil unrest continue to come in from the northern provinces.

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4

relating to or done by the state, instead of by religious authorities

Example

We were married in a simple civil ceremony.

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Example

civil aviation

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Definition civil in American English