courtesy
noun
excellence of manners or social conduct; polite behavior.
courtesies
-
pluralof courtesy.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“What she absorbed of my strain, despite the courtesies of our hosts, is exemplified by her acquisition of two ulcers, which put her in the hospital for weeks at the end of the trip.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026
Despite early courtesies - India's then national security adviser Brajesh Mishra was the first foreign dignitary to congratulate Khaleda Zia - trust proved thin.
From BBC ● Feb. 14, 2026
You’re sitting in a room full of people who you want access to and you are observing the courtesies that are required to keep you in the room.
From Slate ● Nov. 17, 2025
“He’s paid his fealty. He’s done his bows and courtesies, and now realism sets in. He’s not going to win South Carolina in November,” Huffmon said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 3, 2024
She smiled continually, smiled at everyone, as if to make up for Papa’s solemn courtesies.
From "Farewell to Manzanar" by Jeanne Houston
