courtly
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Eastward, Westward” is the opposite of congratulatory: It is courtly and self-effacing.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025
“Irresistible” might be set in the period we know as the Victorian era, and there are royals and attendant paraphernalia, but lovers of polite courtly romances might want to steer clear.
From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 8, 2025
The courtly gentleman guided women around the floor to big band standards with all the aplomb of teenage boys waltzing at a cotillion dance they’ve been forced to attend by their parents.
From Salon • Jul. 4, 2025
The effect is both casual and courtly: Her women lounge on couches and read magazines.
From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2024
Lew Armistead came forward and bowed silently, delicately, old courtly Lo, giving it a touch of elegance.
From "The Killer Angels: The Classic Novel of the Civil War" by Michael Shaara
Vocabulary lists containing courtly
Tolkien Reading Day, List 11
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Red, White, and Whole
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Howl's Moving Castle
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