Court

/kɔːrt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A tribunal established to administer justice.
The case was brought before the court for resolution.
The residence of a sovereign or noble; a royal court.
The king held a grand banquet at the court.
An enclosed area for playing certain sports, such as tennis or basketball.
She practiced her serve on the tennis court.
verb
To seek someone's affection; to try to win their love or favor.
He began to court her with flowers and compliments.
To invite or bring about; to attract.
The politician courted controversy with his remarks.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'corte', from Latin 'cohortis'; related to the idea of enclosure.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in court
Present at a legal proceeding.
court of public opinion
The perception of the public regarding a matter.
to court someone
To seek someone's affection or favor.

Related Words

judge
An official who presides over court proceedings.
lawyer
A person who practices or studies law.
plaintiff
A person who brings a case against another in a court of law.
defendant
An individual accused in a court of law.

Slang Meanings

To court someone
He's been courting her for weeks now.
Court case
They are in court for that lawsuit.