/kawrt"ship, kohrt"-/ , n.
1. the wooing of one person by another.
2. the period during which such wooing takes place.
3. solicitation of favors, applause, etc.
4. Ethology. behavior in animals that occurs before and during mating, often including elaborate displays.
5. Obs. courtly behavior; courtesy; gallantry.
[ 1580-90; COURT + -SHIP ]