Courtier: meaning, definitions and examples

A courtier is mainly used in historical or royal settings to describe someone who attends the court of a king or queen. This person usually has a role in entertaining and advising the monarch.

• The courtier bowed deeply before the king.
• Elizabeth was surrounded by courtiers who sought her favor.

A nobleman is used in historical contexts to refer to a man of high social rank, often with hereditary titles. This term is associated with wealth, privilege, and land ownership.

• The nobleman owned vast estates and numerous servants.
• He was a respected nobleman in the court of the king.

An attendant is someone who helps or serves others, often in a professional capacity, like in a hospital, hotel, or event. This term does not imply giving advice but rather providing assistance.

• The flight attendant handed out drinks to the passengers.
• She works as a nursing attendant in a retirement home.

An adviser typically refers to someone who provides expert advice in a specific area, like politics, finance, or education. This term can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• The president consulted his advisers before making the decision.
• She works as a financial adviser.

A counselor usually refers to someone who provides guidance or therapy in personal or psychological matters. This term can also refer to legal advisers in a courtroom setting.

• He talked to a school counselor about his problems.
• She sought the help of a marriage counselor.

Used to describe someone who is a member of the royal court and seeks to gain favor through flattery or service. Often has a historical or literary connotation.

• The courtier spent his days devising new ways to please the queen.
• In the medieval court, the courtiers were always competing for the king's attention.

Refers to someone who serves in a royal or noble court, attending to various needs and duties, often in a more general and neutral sense compared to 'courtier'.

• The court attendant quietly stood by, ready to assist the noble guests.
• As a court attendant, she was always busy with the daily activities of the palace.

Describes someone who holds a formal position or job within a royal or noble court, typically with specific duties and responsibilities. This term is often used in a more bureaucratic or administrative context.

• The court official announced the arrival of the foreign dignitaries.
• He served as a court official, managing the finances of the palace.