Definition of courtesy call

The phrase "courtesy call" originated during the Victorian era in Britain as a way for gentlemen to pay polite visits to the homes of their acquaintances, often without any specific purpose beyond the intention of showing respect and maintaining social connections. It typically involved arriving unannounced and staying for a brief period, ranging from a few minutes to an hour, before leaving. The custom later spread to other countries, including the United States, where it remains a common social practice in some cultures. Today, the term "courtesy call" is used to describe a similar practice in other contexts, such as business meetings or official visits, where the purpose is not necessarily to discuss specific topics but rather to establish goodwill and build relationships.