courtesy

plural courtesies

1. uncountablePolite behavior.

   Please extend them the courtesy of your presence.

   2 more examples

   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.

   1960, John Updike, 'Rabbit, Run', page 108

2. countableA polite gesture or remark, especially as opposed to an obligation or standard practice.

   I offered them a ride simply as a courtesy.

   1 more example

   My lord, for your many courtesies I thank you.

   1598–1599 (first performance), William Shakespeare, “Much Adoe about Nothing”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, →OCLC, [Act V, scene i]

3. uncountableConsent or agreement in spite of fact; indulgence.

   They call this pond a lake by courtesy only.

4. uncountableWillingness or generosity in providing something needed.

   They received free advertising through the courtesy of the local newspaper.

   1 more example

   [on a label, caption, etc.] Courtesy the Smith Foundation: [e.g.] use of this image was allowed through the courtesy of the Smith Foundation.

5. countabledateduncountableA curtsey.

   The lady drops a courtesy in token of obedience, and the ceremony proceeds as usual.

   1760, Oliver Goldsmith, The Citizen of the World

   1 more example

   [I]t was her favorite amusement to array herself in the faded brocades, and parade up and down before the long mirror, making stately courtesies, and sweeping her train about, with a rustle which delighted her ears.

   1868–1869, Louisa M[ay] Alcott, “Amy’s Will”, in Little Women: […], (please specify |part=1 or 2), Boston, Mass.: Roberts Brothers, →OCLC, page 284

6. countableuncountablelawThe life interest that the surviving husband has in the real or heritable estate of his wife.

present singular third person courtesies · participle present courtesying · participle past courtesied · past courtesied

1. alternativeAlternative form of curtsey.

1. not comparableGiven or done as a polite gesture.

   We paid a courtesy visit to the new neighbors.

2. not comparableSupplied free of charge.

   The event planners offered courtesy tickets for the reporters.

   Synonyms: complimentary, free of charge, gratis