adj
courteous
KUR-tee-uhs
adj
1
Polite and considerate toward others.
"The staff were courteous and helpful throughout our stay."
"A courteous driver let the pedestrians cross first."
How to Use Courteous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPolite and respectful in manner.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "curious" — different word, different meaning entirely.
Common pairings
courteous service
courteous manner
unfailingly courteous
Word Forms
more courteous comparative, most courteous superlative
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Etymology
From Old French curteis (meaning "of the court"), reflecting the polished manners expected of people at a royal court.