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courtly

[kawrt-lee, kohrt-] / ˈkɔrt li, ˈkoʊrt- /


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.

Meanwhile, in Columbia, the state capital, the book came to the attention of Dick Harpootlian, Alex Murdaugh’s courtly but foul-mouthed attorney.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 24, 2026

Next to pictures showing her and Bardella walking, holding hands, and clambering over rocks, Paris-Match waxes lyrical about a couple "reinventing courtly love – 21st Century-style".

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

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

Best of all is the lively triple-time finale, which evokes the long history of courtly hunting music, with an alluring short section in minor key.

From New York Times • May 9, 2024

“Oh, Madam Mina, I knew that the friend of that poor lily girl must be good, but I had yet to learn——” He finished his speech with a courtly bow.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker




Vocabulary lists containing courtly


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