noun
Uncommon
chivalry
SHIH-vuhl-ree
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.”
noun
1
The medieval code of conduct for knights, built around honour, courage, mercy, and courtesy.
"Stories of chivalry, with knights defending the weak and keeping their word, shaped medieval literature."
"The order of knighthood was built on chivalry as much as on skill with a sword."
2
Polite, considerate, and protective behaviour, especially of men toward women.
"Some see opening doors as simple chivalry, others as an outdated custom."
How to use chivalry
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe knightly code of honour and courtesy — today mostly used for old-fashioned gentlemanly manners.
Common pairings
acts of chivalry
code of chivalry
age of chivalry
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Word forms
- Plural
- chivalries
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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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Related words
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.
