Meaning & use
courtliness
Last updated
UK/ˈkɔːtlinəs/
US/ˈkɔːrtlinəs/
Meaning
noununcountableformal
Polite, dignified behavior of the kind expected at a royal court.
Grammar: Uncountable; no plural. Use with verbs like show or admire: he showed great courtliness.
Patterns
- show courtliness
- with courtliness
- a model of courtliness
The old ambassador was admired for his courtliness and calm.
She greeted every guest with quiet courtliness.
His courtliness seemed old-fashioned in such a casual office.
Common combinations
- show courtliness
- He showed courtliness even when he was annoyed.
- old-fashioned courtliness
- Her old-fashioned courtliness charmed the visitors.
- a model of courtliness
- The head waiter was a model of courtliness.
Synonyms and how they differ
- politeness
- The everyday word; courtliness suggests a grander, more formal style.
- courtesy
- Courtesy is respectful behavior in general; courtliness adds an air of royal dignity.
- gallantry
- Gallantry often means brave or chivalrous behavior toward others, especially women.
Opposites
rudenessvulgarity
Word family
- courtly adjective
- Polite and formal in a way linked to royal courts.
- courtier noun
- A person who attends a royal court.
Commonly confused: courtliness or courtesy?
courtliness vs courtesy
Courtesy is general politeness; courtliness is grander and more formal.
Practice
The elderly diplomat was known for his ___.
Choose one answer.
After 'his' we need a noun, and 'courtliness' is the uncountable noun. 'Courtly' is an adjective, and 'courteous' is also an adjective.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “courtliness”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.
Your sentence stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.