Curtsying: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ
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curtsying

 

[ หˆkษœหrtsi ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

formal gesture

Curtsying is a traditional form of greeting that involves bending the knees and lowering the body while keeping the back straight. It is primarily associated with women and girls, and is often performed in the presence of royalty or at formal occasions. This gesture signifies respect and honor towards another person. Curtsying has roots in European court etiquette, where it was a common practice in courts to show submission and reverence. In modern contexts, while less common, curtsying can still be seen during ceremonies and events that emphasize tradition.

Synonyms

bow, obeisance, salute

Examples of usage

  • She performed a curtsy when introduced to the queen.
  • At the ballet, the dancer curtsied elegantly.
  • The young girl practiced curtsying for her school play.
  • During the ceremony, attendees were expected to curtsy to the royal family.

Translations

Translations of the word "curtsying" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น baixar-se

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคเฅเค•เคจเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Verbeugung

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ runduk

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัƒะบะปั–ะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ ukล‚on

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใŠใ˜ใŽ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท courbette

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ inclinaciรณn

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท eฤŸilme

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ธ์‚ฌ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุงู†ุญู†ุงุก

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ poklon

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ รบklon

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ้ž ่บฌ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ klanjanje

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ beygja

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฑะฐั ะธัŽ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ™แƒ˜แƒ“แƒฃแƒ แƒ”แƒ‘แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ eฤŸilmษ™k

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ inclinaciรณn

Word origin

The term 'curtsy' originates from the early 17th century, derived from the word 'courtsey,' which itself came from the word 'courtesy.' The gesture evoked a sense of politeness or respect, particularly in formal settings like royal courts. In the context of medieval and renaissance European culture, body language held significant importance, with various forms of bows and gestures conveying different levels of respect and hierarchy. As society evolved, so did etiquette, but the curtsy remained a distinct and recognizable action associated with femininity and deference. It has been depicted in various art forms, including paintings and literature, reinforcing its status as a cultural symbol of grace and respect. Even today, curtsying is sometimes taught in dance schools, emphasizing its connection to elegance in performance arts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,291, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.