courtesy
/ˈkəːtɪsi
/noun (plural courtesies)
1 [mass noun] The showing of politeness in one’s attitude and behaviour towards others: he treated the players with courtesy and good humour...
- I expect politeness and courtesy towards me as landowner, my family, friends, guests and visitors.
- They want lessons in politeness, courtesy, and most of all the correct way to drive a car in traffic.
- But that is not all: it is unfailing courtesy, especially towards the very old and the very young, that makes association with such men such a privilege.
Synonyms
politeness, courteousness, good manners, civility, respect, respectfulness, deference, chivalry, gallantry, good breeding, gentility, graciousness, kindness, consideration, thought, thoughtfulness, cordiality, geniality, affability, urbanity, polish, refinement, courtliness, decorousness, tact, discretion, diplomacy
British informal decency
humorous couth
1.1 [count noun] A polite remark or considerate act: a ritual exchange of courtesies with the lawyers links to the manufacturers' websites are provided as a courtesy to the user...
- I was brought up understanding that there were certain courtesies and considerations to be extended to all fellow creatures.
- Beneath the jargon, cautious phrases and academic courtesies, one thing was clear: the consensus about social constructs was unraveling.
- ‘They used to chase us away, now they call us ‘madam’ and extend us courtesies,’ she adds.
1.2 [as modifier] (Especially of transport) supplied free of charge to people who are already paying for another service: a courtesy car...
- Incidentally, does your motor insurer offer a free comprehensive courtesy car service when yours is out of action?
- Some hotels offer a courtesy shuttle to and from the airport.
- Excellent service facilities at very competitive prices with free courtesy cars available.
2 archaic A curtsy.
Phrases
by courtesy
(by) courtesy of
Origin
Middle English: from Old French cortesie, from corteis (see courteous).