Courts: meaning, definitions and examples

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courts

 

[ kɔːts ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

legal system

A court is a place where legal matters are heard and decided by a judge or jury. Courts are responsible for interpreting and applying the law in order to resolve disputes and administer justice.

Synonyms

judicial system, law court, tribunal

Examples of usage

  • The case will be heard in the Supreme Court next week.
  • The court ordered the company to pay compensation to the injured party.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

In sports, a court is a specially marked out area where games such as tennis, basketball, and volleyball are played. It usually has specific dimensions and boundaries.

Synonyms

arena, pitch, playing field

Examples of usage

  • She served an ace on the tennis court.
  • The basketball court was newly renovated for the upcoming season.
Context #3 | Verb

dated

To court someone means to try to win their affection and love, usually with romantic intentions. It involves showing interest, admiration, and pursuing a relationship.

Synonyms

pursue, romance, woo

Examples of usage

  • He courted her with flowers and love letters.
  • She was courted by many suitors before choosing her partner.

Translations

Translations of the word "courts" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tribunais

🇮🇳 अदालतें

🇩🇪 Gerichte

🇮🇩 pengadilan

🇺🇦 суди

🇵🇱 sądy

🇯🇵 裁判所

🇫🇷 tribunaux

🇪🇸 tribunales

🇹🇷 mahkemeler

🇰🇷 법원

🇸🇦 محاكم

🇨🇿 soudy

🇸🇰 súdy

🇨🇳 法院

🇸🇮 sodišča

🇮🇸 dómstólar

🇰🇿 соттар

🇬🇪 სასამართლოები

🇦🇿 məhkəmələr

🇲🇽 tribunales

Etymology

The word 'court' has a long history, originating from the Old French word 'court' meaning 'royal residence' or 'administrative body'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the place where legal proceedings take place. In sports, the term 'court' was adopted to describe the playing area. The verb form of 'court' in a romantic context dates back to medieval times, where courtship was a formal process of seeking a partner for marriage.

See also: courter, courtesy, courtier, courting, courtroom, courtship, courtyard.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,277, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.