ˈkōr]tˌship, ˈkȯr], ˈkōə], ˈkȯ(ə)], ]ˌchip\ noun
1. obsolete : conduct appropriate to a court or courtier : courtliness , courtesy : a courtier's state or condition
gallants full of courtship and of state — Shakespeare
2.
a. obsolete : the act of paying court : performance of ceremonial or complimentary courtesies
his courtship to the common people — Shakespeare
b. obsolete : practice of a courtier's arts : use of diplomacy, flattery, finesse, and connivance
3.
a. : the process of paying court to or showing attention to and affection for another person with intentions that involve marriage or other intimacy
b. : the relationship between a couple from awakening of deep interest to formal engagement : the period of such relationship
4. : the act of trying to gain support or goodwill : solicitation and enticement : the endeavor to win, gain, or attain
the duke's courtship of factions as yet uncommitted
5. : the somewhat stereotyped and often complicated behavior culminating in copulation in many animals