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Courtship: meaning, definitions and examples

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courtship

 

[ˈkɔːrtʃɪp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

romantic relationship

Courtship is the period in a couple's relationship which precedes their engagement and marriage. It is a time when two individuals get to know each other better, often with the intention of forming a long-term romantic partnership.

Synonyms

dating, romance, wooing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
courtship

This term is typically used to describe the traditional process where one person tries to win the affection of another with the intention of a long-term commitment, often leading to marriage.

  • Their courtship lasted for several years before they got engaged.
  • During the courtship, he would bring her flowers and take her on romantic dates.
dating

This word is used in modern contexts to describe the activity of going out with someone to get to know them better, usually in a casual manner, with the potential of starting a relationship.

  • They have been dating for a few months now.
  • Online dating has become very popular among young adults.
romance

This term is often used to describe the feelings of excitement and mystery associated with love. It can also refer to the actions and atmosphere that make a relationship feel special and enchanting.

  • Their romance began in Paris, one of the most romantic cities in the world.
  • He filled their life with romance by planning surprise getaways and candle-lit dinners.
wooing

This word has an old-fashioned or poetic feel and is used to describe the act of trying to gain someone's love or favor, often by being very attentive and affectionate.

  • He spent months wooing her with love letters and serenades.
  • The knight devoted his time to wooing the fair maiden.

Examples of usage

  • They enjoyed a traditional courtship, complete with romantic dates and love letters.
  • During courtship, it is common for couples to spend quality time together to build a strong foundation for their relationship.
Context #2 | Noun

animal behavior

In the animal kingdom, courtship refers to the behavior displayed by animals to attract a mate. This can involve elaborate displays, vocalizations, or physical gestures to signal readiness for mating.

Synonyms

courtship display, mating ritual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
courtship

Courtship typically refers to the time and process in which two people or animals get to know each other and develop a romantic relationship, often leading to marriage or mating.

  • Their courtship lasted for two years before they decided to get married
  • The birds' courtship involved many elaborate displays of feathers
mating ritual

Mating ritual is also used in the context of animals and includes a series of behaviors and actions conducted for the purpose of attracting and securing a mate.

  • The mating ritual of the albatross includes synchronized dancing and intricate calls
  • Many insects have complex mating rituals that ensure only the strongest mates succeed
courtship display

Courtship display is specifically used in the context of animals, referring to the special behaviors or displays (like dances or calls) performed by an individual to attract a mate.

  • The peacock's courtship display included spreading its colorful feathers and making soft calls to attract a female
  • Male bowerbirds create elaborate structures as a courtship display to woo potential mates

Examples of usage

  • The male peacock's courtship involves displaying its colorful feathers to attract a female mate.
  • During courtship rituals, certain birds perform intricate dances to impress potential partners.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the idea of 'courting' or visiting someone's family to ask for permission to marry.
  • In medieval times, courtship often involved formal interactions at royal courts, where love was sometimes a political arrangement.
  • The traditions of courtship have evolved, with earlier practices focusing on family approval rather than personal choice.

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, courtship can involve various rituals, such as arranged marriages or elaborate proposals.
  • Some societies emphasize group activities or family meetings during courtship to bless the union.
  • In modern contexts, dating apps and social media have transformed traditional courtship into more casual, instant connections.

Psychology

  • Research shows that successful courtship often involves building emotional intimacy and understanding mutual values.
  • People may experience heightened emotions and excitement during the early stages of courtship due to the release of dopamine.
  • Different styles of courtship, like traditional versus modern, can affect how relationships develop and the expectations involved.

Literature

  • Courtship has been a central theme in many novels, illustrating the romance and challenges of relationships, such as in Jane Austen's works.
  • Poetry often captures the beauty and complexity of courtship, highlighting the emotions and yearnings between lovers.
  • Shakespeare frequently explored the dynamics of courtship, as seen in plays like 'Much Ado About Nothing,' which examines misunderstandings between suitors.

Pop Culture

  • Romantic comedies often depict unrealistic courtship scenarios that humorously exaggerate how people try to win each other's affections.
  • TV shows like 'The Bachelor' reflect modern courtship practices by creating a competitive environment for dating.
  • In some music genres, especially pop and country, songs frequently tell stories of love and courtship, resonating with listeners’ real-life experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "courtship" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cortejo

🇮🇳 प्रणय निवेदन

🇩🇪 Umwerbung

🇮🇩 pacaran

🇺🇦 залицяння

🇵🇱 zaloty

🇯🇵 求愛

🇫🇷 cour

🇪🇸 cortejo

🇹🇷 kur

🇰🇷 구애

🇸🇦 التودد

🇨🇿 dvoření

🇸🇰 dvorenie

🇨🇳 求爱

🇸🇮 dvorjenje

🇮🇸 kurteisi

🇰🇿 құда түсу

🇬🇪 მომსახურება

🇦🇿 elçiliyə

🇲🇽 cortejo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,919, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.