courteous
Translation
courteous, polite, well-mannered
Examples
The staff was very courteous and helpful.
The staff were very courteous and helpful.
He gave a courteous nod to the guests.
He gave a courteous nod to the guests.
Grammar Patterns
courteous ((to sb.)) polite and respectful towards (sb.) He was courteous to everyone he met.
Similar Words
Synonyms: polite, well-mannered, civil; Antonyms: rude, discourteous, impolite
Etymology
From Old French 'curteis', meaning 'having courtly manners', from 'curt' (court). It literally means to behave as one would at a royal court.
Memory Tips
Think of the word 'court'. Someone who is 'courteous' has the manners befitting a royal court.