COURTLY Synonyms: 96 Similar and Opposite Words

courtly

adjective

ˈkȯrt-lē

Definition of courtly

as in graceful

having or showing elegance his courtly manners made him a favorite escort of widowed socialites

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of courtly In addition to writing the show, his central acting turn as Vega/Zorro showcases a formidable skillset as a courtly presence equipped with agile swordplay and a cracking bullwhip. — Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 12 May 2026 The royal court, along with the palaces of nobles, became centers of elegance and display, with ceremonies and outward grandeur being an important part of courtly culture. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Apr. 2026 The pianist Steven Blier, who co-founded NYFOS in 1988 and remains its artistic director, is one of the most imaginative programmers in classical music, his myriad interests bursting the courtly confines of the vocal recital. — Alex Ross, New Yorker, 23 Feb. 2026 These firms now pay their rainmakers like Wall Street stars and have dropped their courtly scruples for relentless commercialism. — Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for courtly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for courtly

Adjective

Its graceful design is meant to celebrate the intricate beauty of the natural world.

— Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 18 Sep. 2026
Urbanie Lucero’s choreography and movement direction maintain the production’s graceful poise.

— Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Definition of graceful

Adjective

Enter Darlene’s handsome grandson Matt (Buckley), a Chicago firefighter and die-hard Bears fan who, with a little gentle nudging from Darlene, agrees to show Avery what being part of Bears Nation is all about.

— Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 17 Sep. 2026
McDavid’s isolated stats show his line surrendered more goals but still delivered a handsome 54 percent share.

— Allan Mitchell, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Definition of handsome

Adjective

The menu is helmed by Tyler Heckman, a Connecticut native who cut his teeth in New York, and is elegant and thoughtfully sourced but approachable.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026
Related Articles All over the bodice, but most certainly the skirt of the dress, flouncy, delicate feathers were featured in abundance, giving the overall design a distinctly textural and playful feel that was still refined and elegant.

— Julia Teti, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of elegant

Adjective

For decades, Sarah’s lifestyle was intertwined with Andrew’s circumstances and, by extension, with the extraordinary privileges and security that came from remaining close to the royal establishment.

— Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 21 Sep. 2026
The caps The bearskin caps are most commonly associated with the King’s Guard, whose soldiers stand watch outside Buckingham Palace and other royal residences.

— James Frater, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2026