courtship

/ˈkɔrtˌʃɪp/
noun
  1. The period or process of trying to win someone's romantic affection, often leading to marriage.
    • Their courtship lasted two years before they decided to marry.
    • In some animals, courtship involves elaborate dances or displays.
    • She wrote about the old-fashioned courtship of her grandparents in her memoir.
  2. The behavior or actions used to attract a romantic partner.
    • The documentary showed the courtship rituals of penguins.
    • The peacock's colorful feathers are part of its courtship display.
    • Gift-giving is a common part of human courtship.
What does "courtship" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean