Have you ever wondered whether to write curtsy or curtsey when describing a traditional gesture of respect? Both spellings appear in English, which can make it difficult to decide which one to use. If you are writing an article, completing an English assignment, or improving your vocabulary, understanding the difference can help you choose the right word.
The good news is that curtsy and curtsey are both accepted spellings of the same word. They refer to a respectful gesture traditionally performed by bending the knees and lowering the body, often associated with formal occasions, royalty, and traditional etiquette.
However, one spelling is more common in modern English, especially in American usage. This guide explains the meaning, pronunciation, spelling variations, grammar rules, and practical examples of curtsy and curtsey so you can use the word confidently.
What Is the Difference Between Curtsy and Curtsey?
The main difference between curtsy and curtsey is their spelling, not their meaning. Both words describe the same gesture of respect, traditionally performed by bending the knees and lowering the body slightly.
Curtsy: The More Common Spelling
Curtsy is the more widely recognized spelling in modern English, particularly in American English. It can function as both a noun and a verb.
As a noun, it describes the gesture itself. As a verb, it describes the action of performing that gesture.
Examples:
- The young girl gave the queen a graceful curtsy.
- She learned how to curtsy during her etiquette lessons.
- The dancer finished her performance with a polite curtsy.
- The princess smiled and curtsied before the audience.
Because curtsy is familiar to many English readers, it is a practical choice for general writing.
Curtsey: An Accepted Alternative
Curtsey is an alternative spelling of curtsy. It has the same meaning and can also function as a noun or a verb.
Examples:
- The performer gave a small curtsey before leaving the stage.
- She learned to curtsey properly during her formal training.
- The child offered a polite curtsey to the guests.
Although curtsey is less common in some varieties of modern English, it is not automatically incorrect.
Which Spelling Should You Choose?
Your choice may depend on your audience, the dictionary or style guide you follow, and the variety of English you are writing in.
For most everyday writing, curtsy is a safe and widely recognized choice. However, if you are following a publication that prefers curtsey, you can use that spelling consistently.
| Feature | Curtsy | Curtsey |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A respectful bending gesture | The same respectful gesture |
| Part of speech | Noun and verb | Noun and verb |
| Correct spelling | Yes | Yes |
| General recognition | Widely recognized | Accepted alternative |
| Example | She gave a curtsy. | She gave a curtsey. |
The essential point is simple: both spellings are valid, and neither changes the basic meaning of the word.
What Does Curtsy or Curtsey Mean?
A curtsy or curtsey is a traditional gesture of respect in which a person bends the knees, often lowering the body while keeping the upper body relatively upright. The gesture has historically been associated with formal greetings, court etiquette, and respectful acknowledgment.
Curtsy as a Noun
When used as a noun, curtsy refers to the gesture itself.
Examples:
- Her curtsy was graceful and elegant.
- The audience applauded after the dancer’s curtsy.
- The little girl practiced her curtsy in front of a mirror.
In each sentence, the word names an action or gesture.
Curtsy as a Verb
When used as a verb, curtsy describes the act of performing the gesture.
Examples:
- The student curtsied before the instructor.
- She will curtsy when she meets the royal family.
- The performer curtsied after receiving applause.
The verb changes according to tense. For example, the past tense of curtsy is curtsied, not curtsyed.
The same general meaning applies when using the alternative spelling curtsey.
How Is a Curtsy Performed?
A traditional curtsy usually involves a person standing upright, bending the knees slightly, and lowering the body in a controlled movement. The exact form can vary according to cultural traditions, etiquette rules, and the occasion.
For example, a ballet dancer may perform a curtsy at the end of a performance to acknowledge the audience. In a formal setting, a person might use a curtsy as a traditional gesture of respect.
Today, the gesture is not required in most everyday social situations. Its use depends on personal preference, cultural expectations, and the context.
Curtsy or Curtsey: Spelling Rules and Grammar
Understanding how these words behave grammatically can help you avoid mistakes in essays, articles, emails, and other forms of writing.
How to Use Curtsy in a Sentence
You can use curtsy as either a noun or a verb.
As a noun:
- The queen appreciated the young visitor’s curtsy.
- Her curtsy showed respect for the tradition.
- The actress ended her performance with a curtsy.
As a verb:
- The young performer learned to curtsy gracefully.
- She curtsied before walking away.
- They watched as the dancers curtsied together.
These examples show how the same word can name a gesture or describe performing it.
What Is the Correct Past Tense?
The correct past-tense form of the verb curtsy is curtsied.
Examples:
- Correct: She curtsied before the queen.
- Incorrect: She curtsyed before the queen.
The spelling changes because the word ends in a consonant followed by y. When forming the past tense, the y changes to i before adding -ed.
The alternative verb curtsey follows a similar pattern:
- Present tense: curtsey
- Past tense: curtseyed
However, when using the more common spelling curtsy, remember to write curtsied.
Common Spelling Mistakes to Avoid
Writers sometimes confuse the noun, verb, and past-tense forms.
| Form | Correct example |
|---|---|
| Noun | She performed a curtsy. |
| Present-tense verb | She knows how to curtsy. |
| Past-tense verb | She curtsied politely. |
| Present-tense alternative | She knows how to curtsey. |
| Past-tense alternative | She curtseyed politely. |
A helpful tip is to remember that curtsy can describe both the gesture and the action. You do not need to change the spelling when using it as a noun, but the verb changes when you describe an action in the past.
Real-Life Examples of Curtsy and Curtsey
The best way to understand a word is to see how people use it in realistic situations. Both spellings can appear in writing about dance, historical traditions, formal ceremonies, and etiquette.
Example 1: Royal Etiquette
Imagine a student attending a formal event where traditional etiquette is being demonstrated. The instructor explains that a curtsy has historically been used as a gesture of respect in certain royal and ceremonial settings.
The student practices bending her knees slightly while maintaining a balanced posture. When the instructor asks her to demonstrate the gesture, she performs a graceful curtsy.
In a written account, the student might say, “I practiced my curtsy before the ceremony.”
Another writer might use the alternative spelling: “I practiced my curtsey before the ceremony.”
Both sentences communicate the same idea. The difference is the spelling preference, not the gesture being described.
Example 2: A Ballet Performance
Consider a ballet dancer who has just completed a performance. The audience applauds, and the dancer steps forward to acknowledge the spectators.
She bends her knees slightly and lowers her body in a graceful gesture. This movement is called a curtsy.
A reviewer might write:
“The dancer finished her performance with a beautiful curtsy, thanking the audience for its warm applause.”
Another reviewer could write:
“The dancer finished her performance with a beautiful curtsey, thanking the audience for its warm applause.”
Both sentences are understandable and use accepted spelling variants. Nevertheless, an editor may choose one spelling and apply it consistently throughout the publication.
Example 3: An English Writing Assignment
A student writing about traditional manners may wonder which spelling to use in an essay. The student finds both curtsy and curtsey in reading materials and assumes that one must be a spelling mistake.
After checking a reputable dictionary, the student learns that both forms are accepted. The student decides to use curtsy because it is familiar and widely recognized in the student’s reading materials.
The essay includes the sentence, “In traditional etiquette, a curtsy can express respect during a formal introduction.”
This is a clear and natural use of the word. It also demonstrates a useful writing principle: when two accepted variants exist, choose the one that suits your audience and remain consistent.
These examples show why context matters. Whether you are writing about a royal ceremony, a dance performance, or an English lesson, both spellings communicate the same basic meaning.
Curtsy vs. Curtsey: History, Usage, and Modern English
Spelling variations often develop as words change over time. English has many examples of alternative spellings that remain acceptable even when one form becomes more familiar.
Where Does the Word Come From?
The word curtsy developed from a historical form associated with the word courtesy. The connection reflects the gesture’s traditional role as an expression of politeness, deference, or respect.
Over time, the spelling became shortened and standardized in forms such as curtsy, while curtsey remained in use as an alternative.
This history helps explain why the two spellings look so similar and share the same meaning.
Is Curtsy American or British English?
The word curtsy is widely used in American English, while curtsey is also encountered in British and other varieties of English.
However, the distinction should not be treated as an absolute rule. English spelling preferences can vary among dictionaries, publishers, and individual writers. Both forms are recognizable, and the preferred spelling depends on the reference source or style guide being followed.
If you are writing for a specific audience, check the dictionary or editorial guidelines that audience uses.
What Do Dictionaries and Language Resources Tell Us?
When two spellings appear in published English, dictionaries are useful for checking whether the difference represents a genuine variant or a spelling error.
For a reliable answer, consult established dictionary resources such as Merriam-Webster, Cambridge Dictionary, and Oxford English Dictionary. These resources can help you verify a word’s definition, pronunciation, grammatical forms, and usage.
For general writing, the important distinction is that curtsy and curtsey refer to the same traditional gesture. You should not assume that curtsey is incorrect simply because you see curtsy more often.
Curtsy or Curtsey: Usage Trends and Practical Writing Advice
Spelling preferences can change over time, and one variant may become more popular in books, websites, newspapers, or educational resources. However, popularity alone does not determine whether a spelling is correct.
What Do Recent Usage Statistics Show?
There is no single authoritative 2025–2026 statistic that establishes a universal percentage split between curtsy and curtsey across all English writing.
Search-engine results and online text collections can provide clues about usage, but their results depend on the dataset, region, time period, and search method. Google Trends, for example, measures relative search interest rather than the total number of times a word appears in published writing.
Therefore, it would be misleading to claim an exact current percentage without a clearly defined dataset and a reproducible analysis.
For practical purposes, curtsy is a widely recognized choice for general English writing, while curtsey remains an accepted alternative.
A Simple Checklist for Choosing the Right Spelling
Use this checklist when deciding which spelling to include in your writing.
- Choose curtsy if you want a familiar spelling for general audiences.
- Choose curtsey if it matches your preferred dictionary or publication style.
- Check your style guide when writing for a school, publisher, or professional organization.
- Stay consistent throughout the same article or document.
- Use the correct verb form, such as curtsied, when writing in the past tense with the curtsy spelling.
These steps make your writing clearer without treating a valid spelling variant as an error.
How to Remember the Difference
If you frequently forget which spelling to use, start with curtsy as your default.
You can associate it with the phrase “a courteous gesture.” Both words relate to traditional manners, which can help you remember the meaning.
For example:
- She gave a curtsy.
- She curtsied politely.
- The dancer’s curtsy impressed the audience.
Once you become comfortable with these forms, recognizing curtsey as an alternative becomes easier.
Mini Quiz:Curtsy or Curtsey
1. Which two spellings are accepted?
A. Curtsy and curtsey
B. Curtsy and courtesy
C. Curtsey and curtisey
D. Curtsy and curtsyed
Answer: A. Curtsy and curtsey
2. What does a curtsy traditionally express?
A. Anger
B. Respect
C. Confusion
D. Disappointment
Answer: B. Respect
3. Which sentence uses “curtsy” as a noun?
A. She curtsied politely.
B. They will curtsy later.
C. Her curtsy was graceful.
D. She learned to curtsy.
Answer: C. Her curtsy was graceful.
4. What is the correct past tense of “curtsy”?
A. Curtsyed
B. Curtsying
C. Curtsies
D. Curtsied
Answer: D. Curtsied
5. True or False: “Curtsey” is an accepted alternative spelling of “curtsy.”
Answer: True
6. Which sentence is correct?
A. She curtsied before the guests.
B. She curtsyed before the guests.
C. She curtsys before the guests yesterday.
D. She curtsying before the guests.
Answer: A. She curtsied before the guests.
7. In which situation might someone perform a curtsy?
A. Measuring a table
B. After a ballet performance
C. Solving a math problem
D. Sharpening a pencil
Answer: B. After a ballet performance
8. True or False: A traditional curtsy involves bending the knees and lowering the body slightly.
Answer: True
9. Which spelling is a widely recognized choice for general English writing?
A. Curtisey
B. Courtesy
C. Curtsy
D. Curtsie
Answer: C. Curtsy
10. Which sentence uses “curtsy” as a verb?
A. Her curtsy looked graceful.
B. The curtsy impressed everyone.
C. That was a graceful curtsy.
D. She learned to curtsy gracefully.
Answer: D. She learned to curtsy gracefully.
11. Which word is historically associated with “curtsy”?
A. Courtesy
B. Curtain
C. Curiosity
D. Cartwheel
Answer: A. Courtesy
12. Complete the sentence: “The dancer finished the show with a graceful ____.”
A. Curtsied
B. Curtsy
C. Curtsying
D. Curtsies
Answer: B. Curtsy
13. Which statements about “curtsy” and “curtsey” are correct? Select all that apply.
A. Both can refer to the same gesture.
B. Curtsy can function as a noun.
C. Curtsey always means a different gesture.
D. Curtsy can function as a verb.
Answer: A, B, and D
14. Which sentence correctly uses the past tense?
A. The girl curtsy in front of the guests yesterday.
B. The girl curtsying in front of the guests yesterday.
C. The girl curtsied in front of the guests yesterday.
D. The girl curtsies in front of the guests yesterday.
Answer: C. The girl curtsied in front of the guests yesterday.
15. What is the main difference between “curtsy” and “curtsey”?
A. They describe different gestures.
B. One is only a noun and the other only a verb.
C. They have unrelated meanings.
D. They are alternative spellings of the same word.
Answer: D. They are alternative spellings of the same word.
16. Which sentence is correct?
A. The visitor gave a respectful curtsy.
B. The visitor gave a respectful curtsied.
C. The visitor gave a respectful curtsying.
D. The visitor gave a respectfully curtsy.
Answer: A. The visitor gave a respectful curtsy.
17. Which spelling is not standard for this gesture?
A. Curtsy
B. Curtsey
C. Curtisey
D. Curtsied
Answer: C. Curtisey
18. Which phrase correctly names the gesture?
A. A courteousness
B. A curtsy
C. A curtsied
D. A curtsyingly
Answer: B. A curtsy
19. Which situations could include a curtsy? Select all that apply.
A. Acknowledging an audience after ballet
B. A formal etiquette demonstration
C. Writing a grocery list
D. A historical scene involving royal court manners
Answer: A, B, and D
20. Which sentence correctly uses the alternative spelling “curtsey”?
A. She gave a curtsey to the guest.
B. She gave a curtseied to the guest.
C. She gave a curtseying to the guest.
D. She gave a curtisey to the guest.
Answer: A. She gave a curtsey to the guest.
21. What part of speech is “curtsy” in the sentence “She performed a curtsy”?
A. Adjective
B. Adverb
C. Noun
D. Preposition
Answer: C. Noun
22. Which sentence uses the verb correctly in the present tense?
A. She curtsies before the queen.
B. She curtsied tomorrow before the queen.
C. She curtsy before the queen.
D. She curtsyed before the queen every day.
Answer: A. She curtsies before the queen.
23. Which word best completes the sentence? “The princess will ____ before the royal guests.”
A. Curtsied
B. Curtsy
C. Curtsies
D. Curtsying
Answer: B. Curtsy
24. True or False: “Curtsy” and “curtsey” have different basic meanings.
Answer: False. Both spellings refer to the same traditional gesture.
25. What is the best way to choose between “curtsy” and “curtsey” in an article?
A. Use both spellings randomly.
B. Assume curtsey is always incorrect.
C. Avoid using either word.
D. Choose a suitable spelling and use it consistently.
Answer: D. Choose a suitable spelling and use it consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is curtsy or curtsey the correct spelling?
Both curtsy and curtsey are accepted spellings. They have the same meaning and refer to a traditional gesture of respect. Curtsy is a widely recognized choice for general writing.
2. What does curtsy mean?
A curtsy is a traditional gesture in which a person bends the knees and lowers the body slightly to show respect or acknowledge someone. It is commonly associated with royalty, formal etiquette, and dance performances.
3. Is curtsey a misspelling of curtsy?
No. Curtsey is an accepted alternative spelling of curtsy. Although one form may be preferred by a particular dictionary or publication, curtsey is not automatically a spelling mistake.
4. What is the past tense of curtsy?
The past tense of curtsy is curtsied.
Example: “The dancer curtsied after the performance.”
5. Can curtsy be used as a verb?
Yes. Curtsy functions as both a noun and a verb.
As a noun: “She performed a curtsy.”
As a verb: “She learned to curtsy gracefully.”
6. Is curtsy used in British English?
Yes. Curtsy is used in British English, and curtsey is also encountered. The preferred form can vary by dictionary, publication, and individual writing style.
7. What is the difference between a bow and a curtsy?
A bow generally involves bending the head or upper body forward. A curtsy traditionally involves bending the knees and lowering the body. Both gestures can express respect, but they are physically different.
8. Which spelling should I use in an essay?
Use curtsy unless your teacher, dictionary, or style guide specifies another preference. If you choose curtsey, use that spelling consistently throughout your essay.
Conclusion: Curtsy or Curtsey?
When deciding between curtsy or curtsey, remember that both spellings are accepted and share the same meaning. Each describes a traditional gesture of respect performed by bending the knees and lowering the body slightly.
For most everyday writing, curtsy is a practical and widely recognized choice. However, curtsey is also valid, so you do not need to treat it as an error. Pay attention to your audience, follow any relevant style guide, and keep your spelling consistent.
Understanding these small differences can improve your vocabulary and help you write with greater confidence.
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Reference
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/curtsy
https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/curtsy_1
Maimoona Mughal is an English grammar enthusiast dedicated to simplifying confusing words, grammar rules, and vocabulary through clear, accurate, and learner-friendly content that helps readers write and communicate with confidence.
