curtsy

[ˈkɜːtsi]

curtsy Definition

  • 1a respectful gesture made by women and girls, consisting of bending the knees and lowering the body
  • 2to perform a curtsy

Using curtsy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "curtsy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She curtsied to the queen.

  • Example

    The little girl curtsied before her dance recital.

  • Example

    The ballerina curtsied at the end of her performance.

curtsy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for curtsy

Antonyms for curtsy

Phrases with curtsy

  • to bow or curtsy as a sign of respect or acknowledgement

    Example

    The performer took a curtsy after receiving a standing ovation.

  • to perform a curtsy as a sign of respect or acknowledgement

    Example

    The young girl gave a curtsy to her dance instructor after her recital.

  • a curtsy that is performed with a deeper bend of the knees and lower bow of the body, often used to show extra respect or formality

    Example

    The bridesmaids performed a deep curtsy as the bride walked down the aisle.

Origins of curtsy

from Middle English 'courtesy', meaning 'courtliness'

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Summary: curtsy in Brief

A 'curtsy' [ˈkɜːtsi] is a respectful gesture made by women and girls, consisting of bending the knees and lowering the body. It is often used to show respect or acknowledgement, as in 'She curtsied to the queen.' 'Curtsy' can be used as a verb, as in 'The little girl curtsied before her dance recital.' Phrases like 'take a curtsy' and 'give a curtsy' refer to performing the gesture, while 'deep curtsy' denotes a more formal or respectful version.

How do native speakers use this expression?