courtesies
|cour-te-sies|
🇺🇸
/ˈkɝː.tə.siz/
🇬🇧
/ˈkɜː.tə.sɪz/
(courtesy)
polite behavior
Etymology
'courtesy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'cortoisie', where 'cort' meant 'court'.
'courtesy' changed from Old French 'cortoisie' and Middle English 'curtesie' and eventually became the modern English word 'courtesy'.
Initially, it meant 'behavior befitting a court' (courtly conduct), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'polite behavior or acts of kindness'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
polite behavior or gestures; civility and consideration toward others.
Small courtesies, like holding the door, can brighten someone's day.
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Noun 2
an individual act of politeness or a favor shown to someone.
He returned her courtesies during her visit by offering help and hospitality.
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Last updated: 2025/11/01 11:10