courtship display

noun

1. a stereotyped pattern of behavior in animals that functions to attract and arouse a prospective mate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of courtship display¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

The lyrebird's tail is also flipped dramatically over its head during the courtship display, as in the above photo.

From Science Daily

The quirky birds with long, pointed tail feathers are known for the male’s elaborate courtship display in which air sacs in the neck are inflated to make a popping sound.

From Seattle Times

The quirky birds with long, pointed tail feathers are known for the male’s elaborate courtship display in which air sacs in the neck are inflated to make a popping sound.

From Washington Times

The quirky birds with long, pointed tail feathers are known for the male’s elaborate courtship display in which air sacs in the neck are inflated to make a popping sound.

From Seattle Times

This is what’s known as “the light show,” a once-a-year courtship display by the synchronous firefly formally named Photinus carolinus.

From Washington Post