courtly
UK: ˈkɔːtli | US: ˈkɔːrtli
adj. elegant and refined, suitable for a royal court
adj. excessively polite or flattering
The word "courtly" derives from the Old French corteis (modern courtois), meaning "of the court." The root "court" traces back to Latin cohors (enclosure, retinue), reflecting the social hierarchy of medieval royal courts. The suffix "-ly" (from Old English -lic) transforms nouns into adjectives, emphasizing behavior befitting nobility. Over time, "courtly" evolved to describe both genuine refinement and exaggerated politeness, mirroring the dual nature of court etiquette—graceful yet often performative.
The duke's courtly manners impressed the foreign ambassadors.
She dismissed his courtly compliments as insincere flattery.
Courtly love poetry flourished in medieval Europe.
His courtly bow concealed a sharp political mind.
The painting depicted a courtly dance in the Renaissance style.