curtsy

[ˈkɜːtsi]

curtsy Definition

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

• bow
• obeisance
• salute
• greeting

Antonyms for curtsy

• disrespect
• rudeness

Phrases with curtsy

• take a curtsy

  to bow or curtsy as a sign of respect or acknowledgement

  Example

  The performer took a curtsy after receiving a standing ovation.

• give a curtsy

  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.

• deep curtsy

  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.