Curtsied meaning

Curtsied means to perform a respectful gesture, usually by women, involving a dip of the body.


Curtsied definitions

Word backwards deistruc
Part of speech Curtsied is a verb.
Syllabic division curt-sied
Plural The plural of curtsied is curtsied.
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) u,i,e
Consonants (5) c,r,t,s,d

What is a Curtsy?

The act of curtsying is a traditional gesture of respect, often seen in formal settings such as royal events, weddings, or theatrical performances. It involves a woman bending her knees while lowering her body in a show of deference or courtesy. This graceful movement has been a part of etiquette for centuries, with variations in execution depending on the culture and context.

Origin and History

The origins of the curtsy can be traced back to the medieval period, when knights would bow to show respect to their lords. Over time, this gesture evolved into a more feminine form known as the curtsy, which became a common practice among women in European courts. It was considered a way to show humility and respect towards those of higher social standing.

How to Curtsy

Performing a curtsy requires proper form and poise. To execute a traditional curtsy, a woman stands with her feet together and lowers her body by bending her knees. The depth of the curtsy can vary depending on the occasion and personal preference. Some may opt for a shallow curtsy, while others may perform a deeper, more formal version.

As she curtsies, a woman may also sweep her skirt or dress to the side with one hand, adding an elegant flourish to the gesture. Eye contact and a gentle smile can enhance the sincerity of the curtsy, making it a heartfelt expression of respect and admiration.

Modern Relevance

While the curtsy may be less common in daily life today, it still holds significance in certain formal settings. From debutante balls to royal events, the curtsy remains a symbol of tradition and respect. In the world of dance, ballet dancers often incorporate curtsies into their performances as a nod to its historical roots.

Overall, the curtsy serves as a reminder of the importance of grace, humility, and courtesy in our interactions with others. Though its practice may have evolved over time, the sentiment behind the curtsy endures as a timeless mark of respect.


Curtsied Examples

  1. She curtsied gracefully at the end of her performance.
  2. The princess curtsied to greet the visiting dignitaries.
  3. As the bride walked down the aisle, she curtsied to her parents.
  4. The young girl curtsied nervously before entering the royal ball.
  5. In the olden days, women curtsied to show respect to their superiors.
  6. The ballerina curtsied to the audience after her stunning performance.
  7. At the formal event, all the debutantes curtsied before the queen.
  8. The young page curtsied before delivering the royal decree.
  9. Upon meeting the queen, the ambassador curtsied before presenting his credentials.
  10. The schoolgirls curtsied before their teacher as a sign of respect.


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  • Updated 06/07/2024 - 09:45:14