COURTLY Meaning and
Definition
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Courtly (adjective): Marked by refined behavior, elegant manners, and sophisticated grace, particularly in a social, romantic, or aristocratic context.
Derived from the term "court," courtly typically pertains to the customs and conduct observed within high society or noble circles, where individuals aspire to epitomize a gracious and polished way of life. A courtly person exudes an air of dignity, courtesy, and decorum, showcasing an inherent sense of nobility and refinement in their every action and interaction. They possess an innate ability to navigate social situations with grace and poise, employing polished speech, mannerisms, and gestures that reflect their cultivated upbringing or aristocratic status.
A hallmark of courtly behavior is its emphasis on chivalry and romanticism. Courtly love, for instance, refers to a medieval concept wherein a nobleman adorns a lady with courtesy, respect, and devotion, often from a distance, and without any expectation of reciprocation. Courtly love emphasizes the pursuit of the beloved with refined and respectful gestures, such as composing poetry or serenading them, further accentuating the aura of elegance and refinement associated with courtly conduct.
Additionally, courtly can also describe an aesthetic style or artistic expression characterized by grandeur, opulence, and grandiosity, commonly seen in the visual arts, literature, and music of various historical eras. These creative works often depict lavish court settings, elaborate costumes, magnificent architecture, and intricate, formalized dances, all of which embody the courtly ideal.
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• Elegant; refined; worthy of a court.
• In the manner of a court.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for COURTLY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for COURTLY
Etymology of COURTLY
The word "courtly" has its origins in the Old French term "curteis", which means "refined, elegant, courteous". This Old French term, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin word "cortesius", which means "pertaining to the court". The Latin term is derived from "curia", meaning "court", which refers to the royal or noble court of a king or ruler. Over time, "curteis" evolved into the Middle English word "courtly", which retains the sense of elegance, refinement, and courtesy associated with courtly behavior.
Similar spelling words for COURTLY
- cordyline,
- courtelle,
- cordless,
- courts,
- corydalus,
- corydalis,
- cordle,
- cordial,
- Courted,
- Cordell,
- court,
- costly,
- courtesy,
- curdle,
- curtly,
- curly,
- curl,
- cordylus,
- could,
- cortland,
- curtsy,
- cuddly,
- curt,
- cordially.
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