Dictionary

chivalrous

adjective chiv·al·rous \ˈshi-vəl-rəs\

: behaving in an honorable or polite way especially toward women

: showing respect and politeness especially toward women

Full Definition of CHIVALROUS

1
:  valiant
2
:  of, relating to, or characteristic of chivalry and knight-errantry
3
a :  marked by honor, generosity, and courtesy
b :  marked by gracious courtesy and high-minded consideration especially to women
chiv·al·rous·ly adverb
chiv·al·rous·ness noun
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First Known Use of CHIVALROUS

14th century

Synonym Discussion of CHIVALROUS

civil, polite, courteous, gallant, chivalrous mean observant of the forms required by good breeding. civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness <owed the questioner a civil reply>. polite commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality <if you can't be pleasant, at least be polite>. courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness <clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers>. gallant and chivalrous imply courteous attentiveness especially to women. gallant suggests spirited and dashing behavior and ornate expressions of courtesy <a gallant suitor of the old school>. chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior <a chivalrous display of duty>.
CHIVALROUS Defined for Kids

chivalrous

adjective chiv·al·rous \ˈshi-vəl-rəs\

Definition of CHIVALROUS for Kids

1
:  of or relating to a knight or knighthood <chivalrous adventures>
2
:  having or showing honor, generosity, and courtesy <a chivalrous and kind man>
3
:  showing special courtesy and regard to women <chivalrous behavior>

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