Word
courted
Phoneticscourt·ed
US/ˈkɔɹtɪd/
UK/kˈɔːtɪd/
Definition
v. to try to get someone's attention or favor, often by being very polite or helpful. You use this when someone is trying to win a person's support or love.
v. to seek the favor, attention, or support of a person or group, typically through persistent or flattering behavior. Often implies a deliberate effort to gain influence or affection.
Examples
“The politician courted the support of young voters.”
“The company courted several investors before finally deciding on a single partner for the new project.”
“By publishing a series of flattering articles, the magazine courted the favor of the royal family, hoping to secure exclusive access for their upcoming issue.”
Examples
simple
“The politician courted the support of young voters.”
contextual
“The company courted several investors before finally deciding on a single partner for the new project.”
complex
“By publishing a series of flattering articles, the magazine courted the favor of the royal family, hoping to secure exclusive access for their upcoming issue.”
Real-World Examples
“Haakon's sister, Märtha Louise, has also courted controversy for remarrying an American self-styled shaman in 2024, their business activities ultimately leading her to step back from royal duties.” “She was courted by a younger generation of stars, appearing with country artists such as Brad Paisley as well as pop singers such as Kesha, and her goddaughter Miley Cyrus.” Etymology
From court + -ed.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/courted