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

As with many of the academic cases, there are often no permanent consequences for Pretendians; they are either allowed to continue teaching or granted a graceful retirement.

— Tommy Orange, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026
The driveway, lined with perennial beds, has a graceful curve on its way to a large circle that allows guests to park near the walkway to the front porch.

— James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 23 Aug. 2026

Definition of graceful

Adjective

This year’s sale is also ripe with small space-friendly gems like the Sanders Reversible sectional and Sven loveseat, both with handsome designs that can speak volumes in a living room of any size.

— Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2026
The rooms The 160 rooms and suites strike a balance between modern style and island charm, with leafy wallpaper, handsome headboards, and artwork by local artists that nod to Key West’s quirky spirit—think roosters and vintage island scenes.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of handsome

Adjective

Shop more outlet deals below, including an elegant candleholder, a luxe ottoman, and slim patio sofa.

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Sep. 2026
The Queen size bed feels huge, there's plenty of light, sumptuous extra seating and an overall elegant Georgian style feel.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of elegant

Adjective

Spray cooling covers a surface with fine droplets that absorb heat and evaporate.

— Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
Now, some of the restaurants carrying that distinction are also questioning the conventions that have come to define fine dining.

— Carinne Geil Botta, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of fine

Adjective

Crowds of well-wishers have also begun laying flowers in Palace Square in Oslo, in front of the royal palace.

— Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026
The couple left the UK for North America in 2020 after stepping back from royal life, and the years since have seen a public falling out with the wider royal family.

— Lauren Said-Moorhouse, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of royal

Adjective

Clearly, Americans didn’t do gallant failure, instead demanding domination over mere participation every time.

— Terry Baddoo, USA Today, 14 June 2026
Commandment was very gallant in defeat for trainer Brad Cox and looks to be on the improve after his seventh-place finish in the Kentucky Derby.

— Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 8 June 2026