What does courtesying mean?
Courtesying is the act of performing a curtsy — a traditional gesture of respect in which the knees are bent and the body lowered slightly, historically expected of women when greeting royalty, aristocracy, or other social superiors. The word functions as the present participle or gerund of an older verb 'courtesy,' though in modern usage the spelling 'curtsying' has largely taken its place. Courtesying appears most often in descriptions of ceremonial occasions, period drama, and etiquette instruction, where the depth and grace of the gesture traditionally signalled the performer's rank and refinement. Because the movement carries connotations of deference and old-world formality, the word evokes a bygone era of court ritual, even as the practice survives at royal presentations and formal state events.
The action or practice of making a curtsy, especially as a learned skill of etiquette.
"Her flawless courtesying impressed everyone at the presentation ceremony."
As a gerund it names the activity itself rather than a particular instance.
Performing a curtsy; bending the knees and lowering the body as a gesture of respect or greeting.
"The maids were courtesying as the countess swept through the hall."
Typically used in progressive constructions such as 'was courtesying.'
Before she could meet the Queen, a debutante had to master the deep curtsy — some reportedly practised courtesying while balancing books on their heads.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of courtesying
Courtesying derives from the noun 'courtesy,' which entered English from Old French 'courtoisie,' meaning courtly behaviour befitting a court. That French term traces back to 'corteis' (courteous), rooted ultimately in Latin 'cohors,' meaning an enclosed yard or company of people — the origin of both 'court' and 'court.' The verb 'to courtesy,' meaning to make a respectful bow-like gesture, developed from this noun, and its present participle form 'courtesying' follows the same pattern. Its close relative 'curtsy' (a contraction of 'courtesy') eventually became the preferred term for the gesture itself.
Related word forms
How courtesying is actually used
Now rare; 'curtsying' is the usual spelling of the equivalent action today. The gesture itself is strongly associated with formal, traditional, and ceremonial contexts, particularly British court etiquette.
Easily confused with courtesying
'Courting' refers to wooing or pursuing a romantic relationship, whereas 'courtesying' refers to making a respectful bow-like gesture of deference.
'Curtsying' is the more standard spelling for the same gesture; 'courtesying' derives from the older verb 'courtesy' and is now rare.