Chivalry

/ˈʃɪvəlɹi/ · noun

Meaning

(now rare, historical) Cavalry; horsemen armed for battle..

Definitions by Sense

1. (now rare, historical) Cavalry; horsemen armed for battle.
2. (obsolete) The fact or condition of being a knight; knightly skill, prowess.
3. The ethical code of the knight prevalent in Medieval Europe, having such primary virtues as mercy towards the poor and oppressed, humility, honour, sacrifice, fear of God, faithfulness, courage and courtesy to ladies.
4. Courtesy, respect and honourable conduct, as between opponents in wartime.
5. Courteous behaviour, especially that of men towards women.
6. (UK, law, historical) A tenure of lands by knightly service.

Example Sentences

‘Most of the lords who rode with Lord Renly to Storm's End have gone over banner-and-blade to Stannis, with all their chivalry.’

He had seen the woman he craved—his woman—his mate—in the arms of another. There had been but one course open to him, according to the fierce jungle code that guided him in this other existence; but just before it had become too late the softer sentiments of his inherent chivalry had risen above the flaming fires of his passion and saved him. A thousand times he gave thanks that they had triumphed before his fingers had released that polished arrow.

Synonyms for chivalry

Antonyms for chivalry

Related Words

Word Forms

• chivalries
• chyvalry

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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