courtier
UK: ˈkɔːtiə | US: ˈkɔːrtiər
n. a person who attends a royal court as a companion or adviser to the king or queen
n. (historical) a noble or official in a royal court
n. (figurative) someone who seeks favor through flattery or servility
The word courtier emerged in Middle English (14th century) from Old French cortoyer (to frequent a court). It reflects the social hierarchy of medieval Europe, where proximity to the monarch granted influence. The suffix -ier systematically forms nouns indicating occupation or association, preserving the word’s link to the royal court’s culture of patronage and diplomacy.
The cunning courtier knew how to win the queen’s favor.
Renaissance courtiers often competed for titles and land grants.
He behaved like a courtier, flattering his boss excessively.
The king’s courtiers advised him on matters of state.
In Shakespeare’s plays, courtiers frequently scheme for power.