curtsy (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈkɜːr.tsi/

Definition

To bend the knees and lower the body with one foot crossing behind the other, as a gesture of respect or greeting, typically performed by women.

Examples

• She curtsied deeply when the king entered the room.

• The ballerina finished her performance with a graceful curtsy.

• The children were taught to curtsy to their elders.

How to Use curtsy

curtsy to (prepositional phrase)

To perform a curtsy towards someone as a sign of respect or greeting. — "The young ladies were taught to curtsy to the visiting dignitaries."

make a curtsy (collocation)

To perform the action of a curtsy. — "She made a perfect curtsy when she met the queen."

Synonyms of curtsy

Words with a similar meaning to curtsy:

• bow
• dip
• genuflect

Antonyms of curtsy

Words with the opposite meaning to curtsy:

• bow
• stand tall

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