Curtsey: meaning, definitions and examples

A brief curtsy is typically performed by women or girls as a gesture of respect or greeting, often in formal or traditional settings. This word is less commonly used and can be considered somewhat archaic.

• She performed a curtsey to greet the queen.
• The little girl made a curtsey when she was introduced to the guests.

Bowing is a gesture of respect or greeting commonly used around the world. It can be used by both men and women and is more versatile in everyday and formal contexts.

• The actor took a bow at the end of the performance.
• He gave a slight bow to show his appreciation.

Curtsy is essentially the same as curtsey and is performed by women or girls as a gesture of respect, greeting, or thanks in formal or traditional settings.

• She curtsied deeply before the royal family.
• Her curtsy was graceful and elegant.

Typically used to describe a formal gesture where a woman bends her knees while bowing her head as a sign of respect or acknowledgement. It is commonly associated with traditional or formal settings.

• The princess made a graceful curtsey to the crowd.
• She performed a curtsey before leaving the stage.

A gesture of lowering the head or bending the upper body to show respect, gratitude, or greeting. It can be performed by any gender and is used in various formal and informal settings.

• He gave a small bow to the audience after his performance.
• When they met, the two old friends exchanged a respectful bow.

Another spelling of 'curtsey'. Used to describe the same formal gesture of respect by a woman. It is less commonly used than 'curtsey' but holds the same meaning.

• The girl performed a shy curtsy before the queen.
• She dropped into a quick curtsy when introduced to the guests.