uncourtly

uncourtly

A nobleman turns away from an uncourtly visitor.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Not refined or elegant: "uncourtly" describes behavior or manners that lack the polish, grace, or formality typically associated with a royal court or polite society.
    • Lacking courtesy: It can also mean discourteous or rude, though this sense is less common and overlaps with "uncourteous."
Usage Examples
  • (His behavior was not refined or elegant.)
  • (His words were discourteous.)
  • (His directness was not appropriate for a refined setting.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to behave in an uncourtly fashion": to act without the expected elegance or formality.

    • The young duke's uncourtly fashion of laughing loudly at the ceremony embarrassed his family. (His laughter was too loud and not dignified.)

  • "uncourtly appearance": a look that is not polished or refined.

    • His uncourtly appearance, with unkempt hair and wrinkled clothes, made him stand out at the gala. (He did not look elegant or well-groomed.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Uncourtliness (noun): the quality of being uncourtly.

    • The uncourtliness of his remarks was noted by everyone present. (The lack of refinement in his words was obvious.)

  • Courtly (adj): refined, elegant, and polite in manner (the opposite of uncourtly).

    • His courtly bow impressed the visiting princess. (His bow was elegant and polite.)
Synonyms
  • Unrefined: lacking good taste or elegance.
  • Discourteous: showing a lack of respect or politeness.
  • Rude: offensively impolite or ill-mannered.
  • Ungracious: lacking courtesy or charm.
Antonyms
  • Courtly: refined and polite.
  • Gracious: courteous, kind, and pleasant.
  • Polite: having or showing good manners.
Related Idioms

  • "a fish out of water": someone who feels uncomfortable in a social setting due to being uncourtly or unrefined.

    • At the royal banquet, the farmer was a fish out of water, his uncourtly habits drawing stares. (He felt out of place because his manners were not refined.)

  • "rough around the edges": lacking polish or refinement, similar to uncourtly.

    • Though he was rough around the edges, his uncourtly honesty was refreshing. (He lacked elegance but was genuine.)