ENGLISH DICTIONARY

Courtesy

Definition, Meaning & Examples

Pronunciation /ˈkɜːtəsi/ · Part of speech noun

Quick meaning: Courtesy is a noun meaning (uncountable) Polite behavior.

Meaning

(uncountable) Polite behavior.

More Meanings

  1. (countable) A polite gesture or remark, especially as opposed to an obligation or standard practice.
  2. (uncountable) Consent or agreement in spite of fact; indulgence.
  3. (uncountable) Willingness or generosity in providing something needed.
  4. (law) The life interest that the surviving husband has in the real or heritable estate of his wife.
  5. Given or done as a polite gesture.
  6. Alternative form of curtsey.
  7. (dated) A curtsey.

Example Sentences

I offered them a ride simply as a courtesy.
They call this pond a lake by courtesy only.
My lord, for your many courtesies I thank you.
Please extend them the courtesy of your presence.

Word Forms

Synonyms for courtesy

Depending on context, synonyms include complimentary, gratis.

Antonyms for courtesy

Common opposites include discourtesy, rudeness.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include politeness, courteousness, polite, courteous, civility, decency.

Related Dictionary Tools

Sources & Attribution

FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0

Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.