culture

(noun) a particular society at a particular time and place. Synonyms: civilization, civilisation. Example: "Early mayan civilization."

(noun) the tastes in art and manners that are favored by a social group.

(noun) all the knowledge and values shared by a society. Synonyms: acculturation.

(noun) (biology) the growing of microorganisms in a nutrient medium (such as gelatin or agar). Example: "The culture of cells in a petri dish."

(noun) a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality. Synonyms: polish, refinement, cultivation, finish. Examples: "They performed with great polish." "I admired the exquisite refinement of his prose." "Almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art"--joseph conrad."

(noun) the attitudes and behavior that are characteristic of a particular social group or organization. Examples: "The developing drug culture." "The reason that the agency is doomed to inaction has something to do with the fbi culture."

(noun) the raising of plants or animals. Example: "The culture of oysters."

(verb) grow in a special preparation. Example: "The biologist grows microorganisms."