First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
chivalry
noun chiv·al·ry \ˈshi-vəl-rē\
: the system of values (such as loyalty and honor) that knights in the Middle Ages were expected to follow
: an honorable and polite way of behaving especially toward women
plural chiv·al·ries
Full Definition of CHIVALRY
1
: mounted men-at-arms
2
archaic a : martial valor b : knightly skill
3
: gallant or distinguished gentlemen
4
: the system, spirit, or customs of medieval knighthood
5
: the qualities of the ideal knight : chivalrous conduct
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Origin of CHIVALRY
Middle English chivalrie, from Anglo-French chevalerie, from chevaler knight — more at chevalier
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CHIVALRY Defined for Kids
chivalry
noun chiv·al·ry \ˈshi-vəl-rē\
Definition of CHIVALRY for Kids
1
: the system, spirit, ways, or customs of knighthood
2
: very honorable and courteous behavior
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