courteous

courteous (ˈkɜːtɪəs)

—*adj*
	polite and considerate in manner

[C13 corteis, literally: with courtly manners, from Old French; see court]

'courteously

—*adv*

'courteousness

—n

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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Etymonline

Word Origin & History

courteous

late 13c., from O.Fr. curteis "having courtly bearing or manners," from curt "court" + -eis, from L. -ensis. In feudal society, also denoting a man of good education (hence the name Curtis). Medieval courts were associated with good behavior and also beauty; e.g. Ger. hübsch "beautiful," from M.H.G.

hübesch "beautiful," originally "courteous, well-bred," from O.Franconian hofesch, from hof "court."

Example sentences

For all the self-conscious spectacle, the staff is highly skilled and

courteous, if precocious.

No one was more courteous and affable, but it was his principle to shun all

unnecessary visits.

The department's mission statement is to provide responsive, professional and

courteous customer service.

Their behavior seems courteous at first, but upon their departure, the family

is affected.

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