Court Meaning
Court Definition & Usage
A tribunal or body of judges established to hear and decide legal matters, typically in relation to justice administration.
Examples
- "The case was heard in a local court of law."
- "She appeared in court to testify as a witness."
- "The court ruled in favor of the defendant."
- "The judge advised the defendant to remain silent in court."
- "The court case has been postponed until next month."
A flat, marked surface or area where various sports are played, particularly tennis, basketball, and volleyball.
Examples
- "They played their match on a clay tennis court."
- "The basketball court was crowded with spectators."
- "We need to book a court for the next game."
- "He spent hours practicing his serve on the court."
- "The volleyball game was postponed due to wet courts."
To seek the favor, affection, or love of someone, often in a formal or traditional manner.
Examples
- "He courted her for several months before proposing."
- "She was courted by many suitors during the ball."
- "In the past, it was common for men to court women with elaborate gestures."
- "He carefully courted the favor of the king to secure his position."
- "The young prince was said to be courting the princess from a neighboring kingdom."
The residence of a sovereign, or the place where the royal family or nobility resides and conducts their affairs.
Examples
- "The queen lives in a grand court surrounded by loyal servants."
- "The king's court was filled with advisors and nobles."
- "They were invited to attend a banquet at the royal court."
- "The royal court held a lavish celebration to mark the occasion."
- "Life in the court was often fraught with intrigue and political maneuvering."
To bring a legal case against someone, or to initiate legal proceedings.
Examples
- "She decided to court legal action after her contract was violated."
- "They are courting a lawsuit over the damages."
- "He is considering whether to court the media’s attention."
- "The company faced multiple charges when it courted financial trouble."
- "The lawyer cautioned him against courting a lawsuit for a minor dispute."
Cultural Context
The word 'court' has its roots in Old French and Latin, originally meaning a royal or noble gathering. Over time, it expanded to include a range of meanings, from legal institutions to sports arenas. It has a long cultural and historical significance, particularly in contexts involving legal systems, sports, and the noble classes. In modern usage, 'court' continues to be relevant in both legal and social contexts.
The Court of Chance
Story
The Court of Chance
In the small village of Montrois, a young noblewoman named Eloise was admired for her grace and beauty. Many suitors vied for her affection, each attempting to court her with grand gestures and lavish gifts. But Eloise's heart was set on a different path—one that would lead her away from the traditions of courtly love and into the more unpredictable world of the common folk. It was at the village court where she encountered a man unlike any other: Raphael, a humble baker with no title or wealth, yet a spark in his eyes that intrigued her. Over time, Eloise found herself drawn to Raphael, not by his outward gestures, but by his kindness and wisdom. Their meetings in the bustling town square, near the court where the villagers gathered to resolve disputes, became the highlight of her day. But Eloise's choice was not without consequences. Her family and the courtiers at the royal court, with their elaborate intrigues and expectations, looked down on her growing affection for a mere baker. One fateful day, Eloise’s father, the Duke, called for a meeting at the grand court to discuss her future. The room was filled with noblemen, lawyers, and distant relatives all eager to have their say. The court was a place where power was wielded, and Eloise’s defiance was seen as a challenge to the social order. Her decision would not be an easy one—either to embrace the expectations of her noble lineage or to fight for her love against the backdrop of royal politics. With the eyes of the court upon her, Eloise stood tall, making her choice known. Her voice echoed through the hall, not as the daughter of a Duke, but as a woman who knew what her heart desired. Raphael, who had courted her patiently and respectfully, stood beside her, ready to face whatever consequences lay ahead. In that moment, Eloise realized that the true meaning of 'court' had evolved for her—no longer a place of royal obligation, but one where love, truth, and personal freedom reigned supreme.
Related Words
