courtesy

Definition

Polite behavior.

Etymology

From Middle English curteisie, curtesie, from Anglo-Norman curtesie, from Old French curteisie, cortoisie. Equivalent to courteous + -y (abstract noun suffix).

Example Sentences

• "Please extend them the courtesy of your presence."
• "He was always known for his grace, kindness, and courtesy to people of every rank."
• "Rabbit doesn't want to tell him anything. The more he tells, the more he loses. He's safe inside his own skin, he doesn't want to come out. This guy's whole game is to get him out into the open where he can be manipulated. But the fierce convention of courtesy pries open Rabbit's lips."