from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Complaisance \Com"plai*sance`\ (?; 277), n. [F. complaisance.
See {Complaisant}, and cf. {Complacence}.]
Disposition to please or oblige; obliging compliance with the
wishes of others; a deportment indicative of a desire to
please; courtesy; civility.
[1913 Webster]
These [ladies] . . . are by the just complaisance and
gallantry of our nation the most powerful part of our
people. --Addison.
[1913 Webster]
They strive with their own hearts and keep them down,
In complaisance to all the fools in town. --Young.
Syn: Civility; courtesy; urbanity; suavity; affability; good
breeding.
[1913 Webster]