pleasaint

Pleasaint is a neologism used to describe a person who combines politeness with moral integrity, especially in contentious or challenging interactions. The term is informal and not widely standardized, but in online forums and contemporary discourse it is used to refer to individuals who strive to de-escalate disputes, uphold ethical standards, and treat others with courtesy.

Origin and formation: The word appears to be a portmanteau of "please/pleasantry" and "saint," signaling a person who is both courteous and morally exemplary. Early attestations date from online discussions in the early 2020s, though exact origins are unclear and the term remains informal.

Usage: In practice, a pleasaint emphasizes respectful language, active listening, and constructive suggestions rather than personal attack. It is often used to describe moderators who guide conversations toward inclusivity, or public figures who advocate for ethical standards. Example: "She handled the criticism as a pleasaint would—steady, patient, and focused on solutions."

Reception and notes: As a relatively new coinage, pleasaint lacks formal definition in dictionaries and may be used jokingly or self-referentially. It is more common in discussions of online civility, ethical leadership, and conflict resolution. See also: neologism; online civility; rhetorical strategy.