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
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
At the church, Murray was known as a courtly workaholic, in before dawn most days and often in his book-filled study until late at night.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2024
It was plain and comfortable, unlike my stiff and fashionable courtly dress, and it gave me an ease of movement that I relished.
From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein
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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