Court

Definition

Court is a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to a place where legal cases are heard, or a designated area for certain sports. As a verb, it means to seek favor or affection, or to try to win the favor of someone, often for romantic or political purposes.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɔrt/
• Respelling: KORT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɔːt/
• Respelling: KAWT

Etymology

The word "court" originates from the Latin "cohors," meaning "enclosure" or "retinue," which evolved through Old French "corte" to Middle English, where it took on meanings related to legal and royal settings.

Derivatives

• Courthouse (noun)
• Courtship (noun)
• Courtier (noun)
• Courtliness (noun)
• Courtly (adjective)

Synonyms

• Tribunal
• Judiciary
• Field (sports context)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "court" is commonly used to refer to places of justice, such as "The case was brought to court," or to describe romantic pursuit, as in "He began to court her." It is also used to describe specific sports areas, such as a tennis court.

Related Terms

• Judge: An official who presides over court proceedings.
• Trial: A formal examination of evidence in court.
• Jury: A group of people sworn to deliver a verdict in a court case.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A place where legal cases are heard and decided: Refers to an official setting where judicial activities occur.
  • Example: "The defendant appeared in court for his trial."
• A designated area for certain sports, such as tennis or basketball: Refers to a specific type of field or area used in sports.
  • Example: "They reserved a court for their tennis match."
• The royal or noble assembly of a monarch or dignitary: Denotes the formal gathering of a monarch's entourage or advisors.
  • Example: "The king summoned his court for an audience."

Verb

• To seek to gain the favor or love of someone, often romantically: Used to describe efforts to woo or pursue someone’s affection.
  • Example: "He began to court her with flowers and gifts."
• To attempt to attract or win favor: Describes efforts to gain approval or support, often for political or social reasons.
  • Example: "The politician courted voters through public speeches."