Pronunciation and IPA:
The word "courteous" derives from the Old French term "curteis," which means 'pertaining to the court'. It entered English around the late 12th century. The Old French term itself comes from "court", which is from the Latin "cortex", meaning 'court'. The evolution of the term reflects the behavior expected at royal or noble courts, which was considered the standard for proper conduct. Over time, the term broadened to describe polite and considerate behavior in general, not just that associated with the aristocratic or royal courts.