courtesy
noun
- gentle politeness and courtly manners
Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /ˈkɜːtəsi/ / /ˈkɝɾəsi/
adj
Etymology: From Middle English curteisie, curtesie, from Anglo-Norman curtesie, from Old French curteisie, cortoisie. Equivalent to courteous + -y (abstract noun suffix). By surface analysis, court + -esy.
- Given or done as a polite gesture.
“We paid a courtesy visit to the new neighbors.”
- Supplied free of charge.
“The event planners offered courtesy tickets for the reporters.”
noun
Etymology: From Middle English curteisie, curtesie, from Anglo-Norman curtesie, from Old French curteisie, cortoisie. Equivalent to courteous + -y (abstract noun suffix). By surface analysis, court + -esy.
- Polite behavior.
“Please extend them the courtesy of your presence.”
“He was always known for his grace, kindness, and courtesy to people of every rank.”
- A polite gesture or remark, especially as opposed to an obligation or standard practice.
“I offered them a ride simply as a courtesy.”
“My lord, for your many courtesies I thank you.”
- Consent or agreement in spite of fact; indulgence.
“They call this pond a lake by courtesy only.”
- Willingness or generosity in providing something needed.
“They received free advertising through the courtesy of the local newspaper.”
“[on a label, caption, etc.] Courtesy the Smith Foundation: [e.g.] use of this image was allowed through the courtesy of the Smith Foundation.”
- A curtsey.
“The lady drops a courtesy in token of obedience, and the ceremony proceeds as usual.”
“[I]t was her favorite amusement to array herself in the faded brocades, and parade up and down before the long mirror, making stately courtesies, and sweeping her train about, with a rustle which delighted her ears.”
- The life interest that the surviving husband has in the real or heritable estate of his wife.
verb
Etymology: From Middle English curteisie, curtesie, from Anglo-Norman curtesie, from Old French curteisie, cortoisie. Equivalent to courteous + -y (abstract noun suffix). By surface analysis, court + -esy.
- Alternative form of curtsey.