Courtesied Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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courtesied
[ˈkɔːr.tɪs.id ]
Definition
formal greeting
Courtesied is the past tense of the verb 'courtesy,' which means to perform a gesture of respect or deference, typically associated with women. It often involves bending the knees and lowering the body, a gesture that conveys politeness and respect towards others.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She courtesied elegantly before the queen.
- He courtesied to his guests as they entered the room.
- The dancer courtesied at the end of her performance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, especially European, a curtsy is traditionally performed by women when greeting royalty.
- Ballet and theater often incorporate courtesies as part of formal dance performances, showcasing elegance and respect.
- In Japan, bowing is a similar gesture of respect, demonstrating the universal value placed on politeness across cultures.
Literature
- Courtesies appear frequently in classic literature, especially in works describing royal court life, such as Shakespeare's plays.
- In 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, social norms dictate that characters often perform courtesies to signify respect and status.
- Many fairy tales feature courtesies, where young princesses or ladies show proper behavior in front of kings and queens.
Social Psychology
- Acts of courtesy, like curtsying, can impact social interactions by reinforcing hierarchy and social norms.
- Psychological studies show that displaying respect through gestures can foster positive relationships and harmony in groups.
- Humans often mirror gestures like curtsies or bows to build rapport and connection, showing the power of non-verbal communication.
Historical Context
- In medieval Europe, curtsying was an essential part of court etiquette, especially for women, symbolizing obedience and respect.
- Different regions had variations of curtsies, reflecting local customs and social structures of the time.
- During the Victorian era, the curtsy became a formalized gesture observed in high society, supported by strict social codes.
Origin of 'courtesied'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'courtesy,' which means polite behavior, and has roots in the late 14th century.
- In French, 'courtois' means courteous or polite, connecting the word to behavior of nobility.
- The action of curtsying is considered an ancient form of greeting that symbolizes humility and respect.
The word 'courtesy' comes from the Old French 'courtoisie,' which means 'courtliness' or 'politeness.' This, in turn, originates from 'court,' referring to a royal court or the courtly manners expected within such a social setting. The act of courtesying has been associated with royal protocol, particularly in European cultures, where it was essential for women to show respect to their superiors and dignitaries. Over the centuries, the act of courtesying has evolved into a sign of formal greeting and respect in various social situations, not limited to royal encounters.