— courtliness , n.
/kawrt"lee, kohrt"-/ , adj., courtlier, courtliest , adv.
adj.
1. polite, refined, or elegant: courtly manners.
2. flattering; obsequious.
3. noting, pertaining to, or suitable for the court of a sovereign.
adv.
4. in a courtly manner; politely or flatteringly.
[ 1400-50; late ME; see COURT, -LY ]