chivalry
Chivalry (noun) means the medieval code of conduct for knights, built around honour, courage, mercy, and courtesy. Example: “Stories of chivalry, with knights defending the weak and keeping their word, shaped medieval literature.”
How to use chivalry
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe knightly code of honour and courtesy — today mostly used for old-fashioned gentlemanly manners.
Word forms
chivalries plural
Fill the gap
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Stories of _____, with knights defending the weak and keeping their word, shaped medieval literature.
Etymology
From Old French chevalerie ("knighthood, cavalry"), from chevalier ("knight, horseman") — a doublet of the word "cavalry."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for chivalry
See all rhymes for chivalry →Frequently asked questions
What does “chivalry” mean?
The word “chivalry” means the medieval code of conduct for knights, built around honour, courage, mercy, and courtesy. In plain terms, the knightly code of honour and courtesy — today mostly used for old-fashioned gentlemanly manners.
How do you pronounce “chivalry”?
“Chivalry” is pronounced SHIH-vuhl-ree (/ˈʃɪvəlɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “chivalry” in a sentence?
Here is “chivalry” used in a sentence: “Stories of chivalry, with knights defending the weak and keeping their word, shaped medieval literature.”
What part of speech is “chivalry”?
“Chivalry” is a noun.
Where does the word “chivalry” come from?
The word “chivalry” comes from Old French. From Old French chevalerie ("knighthood, cavalry"), from chevalier ("knight, horseman") — a doublet of the word "cavalry.".
Is “chivalry” a common word?
“Chivalry” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “chivalry” have?
“Chivalry” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the medieval code of conduct for knights, built around honour, courage, mercy, and courtesy.