courtesy/ˈkɜːtəsi/EtymologyFrom Middle English curteisie, curtesie, from Anglo-Norman curtesie, from Old French curteisie, cortoisie. Equivalent to courteous + -y (abstract noun suffix). By surface analysis, court + -esy.courtesy means given or done as a polite gesture. Lexicurio rates it Distinctive — a strength score of 65 out of 100.adjGiven or done as a polite gesture.“We paid a courtesy visit to the new neighbors.”Supplied free of charge.“The event planners offered courtesy tickets for the reporters.”nounPolite behavior.“Please extend them the courtesy of your presence.”A polite gesture or remark, especially as opposed to an obligation or standard practice.“I offered them a ride simply as a courtesy.”Consent or agreement in spite of fact; indulgence.“They call this pond a lake by courtesy only.”Willingness or generosity in providing something needed.“They received free advertising through the courtesy of the local newspaper.”A curtsey.“The lady drops a courtesy in token of obedience, and the ceremony proceeds as usual.”The life interest that the surviving husband has in the real or heritable estate of his wife.