What does courted mean?
"Courted" is the past tense and past participle of the verb "court," meaning to have sought the affection, attention, or favor of someone. Its most familiar sense is romantic: to court someone is to pursue them with the intention of marriage or a lasting relationship — a practice historically marked by formal visits, letters, and chaperoned meetings. Beyond romance, "courted" is widely used figuratively to describe deliberately winning someone's approval or backing: politicians court voters, businesses court investors, and writers court critics. The word can also shade into recklessness, as in "courted danger" or "courted disaster,") where it implies knowingly inviting risk. Derived from Latin "cohors" via Old French "cort," it carries an air of formality and intentionality that sets it apart from casual dating. Whether describing a Victorian suitor or a modern campaign trail, "courted" always implies patient, purposeful effort.
To have sought the romantic affection of someone, typically with marriage in mind.
"They courted for three years before marrying in a small country chapel."
Implies a deliberate, often prolonged period of romantic pursuit rather than casual dating.
To have sought to win the favor, support, or approval of someone.
"The startup aggressively courted venture capitalists throughout the spring."
The same word that once described a knight's chaste pursuit of a lady now also describes a politician courting votes — or a daredevil literally courting death.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of courted
"Courted" derives from the verb "court," which entered English from Old French "corter" (to woo at court), itself rooted in Latin "cohors," meaning an enclosure or retinue. The noun "court" originally referred to a royal household or assembly, so to "court" someone was literally to pay attention at court — hence its association with refined, ceremonial wooing. Cognates include "courtesy," "courtier," and "courteous," all reflecting the aristocratic culture of medieval courts.
Related word forms
How courted is actually used
Carrying the flavor of formal, deliberate pursuit — more traditional and dignified than casual synonyms like "dated." In figurative use, "courted" can carry negative connotation when paired with undesirable outcomes ("courted danger," "courted disaster").
Easily confused with courted
"Courted" means to woo or seek favor, while "caught" means to have captured or seized something.
"Cohort" is a noun meaning a companion or group; "courted" is a verb form meaning to have wooed or sought favor.