Coquetry

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈkÉ’kɪtri/, /ˈkəʊkÉ™tri/
• US IPA: /ˈkoÊŠkÉ™tri/

Origin

From French coquetterie

Full definition of coquetry

Noun

1. An affectation of amorous tenderness, especially of a woman directed towards a man.
• 1882, Louisa M. Alcott, Kitty's Class Day And Other Stories Chapter , The little coquetries, which are as natural to a gay young girl as her laughter, were all in full play, and had she gone no further no harm would have been done.
• 1910, Geraldine Bonner, The Emigrant Trail Chapter , The mischievous pleasure of her coquetries was forgotten, and in a rush of glad confidence she felt a woman's pride in him.
• 1913, Carolyn Wells, Patty's Social Season Chapter , "Her pretty little coquetries are like the gambols of a kitten.

Synonyms

• flirtation