punctilio

There was thus an artificial element in his punctilio that at times might almost raise a smile.

Punctilio, pungk-til′yo, n. a nice point in behaviour or ceremony: nicety in forms: exact observance of forms.

Mr. Fenellan repeated, in a pause, 'Punctilio,' and not emphatically.

My superintendents are indulgent; but to a punctilio they demand a due observance of decorum and propriety of conduct.

But I will not stand on punctilio when it is a question of trying to save a Penreath of Twelvetrees from the gallows.

The doctor greeted William cordially, and with that punctilio that a man offers to one whom he recognizes as his superior.

Without reflecting on what was due to decorum and punctilio, I immediately drew near the house.

To the last they retained something of the punctilio, which, as he says, inspired him at the outset.

Of course he wasn't doing anything so vulgar as making love to her; but there was a kind of punctilio for a man who was engaged.

Very honorable indeed; but at this moment we must waive a punctilio.