Chivalry Meaning

Meaning of Word: Chivalry

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Definitions and Meaning in English

• Chivalry refers to the qualities and behavior that are considered to be the hallmark of a noble or courteous person, especially a knight. It often encompasses notions of bravery, honor, respect for others, particularly women, and a commitment to fairness and justice.
• The term can also refer to the code of conduct followed by knights in the medieval period, emphasizing qualities such as loyalty, courage, and honor in battle, as well as protection of the weak.

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History and Origin

• The word “chivalry” comes from the Old French term chevalerie, meaning “horsemanship” or “knighthood.” The root word chevalier means “horseman” in French, derived from the Latin caballarius, meaning “horseman” or “rider.”
• Chivalry became a central part of medieval European culture, particularly during the Middle Ages. It was associated with the behavior of knights who followed a set of rules that emphasized honor, courage, and service to others, especially in warfare and matters of justice.
• The term evolved over time to refer not only to the actions of knights but also to the broader ethical and moral standards that were idealized in European society.

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Detailed Explanation

Chivalry originally described the conduct and ethics associated with knights in medieval Europe. However, over time, the concept expanded to include any honorable or noble behavior that emphasized respect, courtesy, and duty toward others, especially the weak or vulnerable.

While the early concept of chivalry was closely tied to martial prowess and defense of the realm, it also involved a moral code that demanded knights act with fairness, respect, and honor. This code included ideals such as:

• Protecting the weak and defenseless.
• Upholding justice and truth.
• Acting with courtesy and gallantry toward women.
• Showing loyalty and bravery in battle.

In modern times, “chivalry” has become a more general term that refers to any act of courtesy, respect, and fairness, especially toward women. It evokes the image of an idealized, noble figure who treats others with kindness and integrity.

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Example Sentences

1. His chivalry was evident when he helped the elderly woman across the street.
2. The knight adhered to the code of chivalry, protecting the kingdom with unwavering loyalty.
3. Even in the heat of battle, his sense of chivalry remained intact, as he spared his opponent’s life.
4. She admired his chivalry, especially when he stood up to defend her honor in the face of ridicule.
5. The story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is a classic tale of chivalry and honor.
6. Chivalry dictated that he would never break his promise, even when it became difficult to keep.
7. His chivalrous acts earned him the admiration of all who knew him.
8. The old-fashioned notion of chivalry still influences the way some people approach relationships.
9. She thanked him for his chivalry, appreciating the respectful way he treated her.

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Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Courtesy – Polite behavior and respect for others, often used in similar contexts to chivalry.
2. Gallantry – Courage or bravery, especially in battle, combined with courteous actions, often toward women.
3. Nobility – The quality of being noble in character, which includes the ideals of chivalry such as honor and respect.
4. Valor – Great courage in the face of danger, often associated with the knightly aspects of chivalry.
5. Honorable conduct – Behavior that conforms to ethical or moral principles, a key element of chivalry.

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Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Knight – A person who was part of the medieval warrior class, often associated with the practice of chivalry.
2. Code of Conduct – A set of rules that guide behavior, similar to the ethical code followed by knights in the context of chivalry.
3. Honor – The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, which is central to the concept of chivalry.
4. Valiant – Describes a person who shows bravery or determination, a quality valued in chivalric traditions.
5. Gallant – Courteous and brave, especially in the context of the treatment of others, especially women, aligning with chivalric ideals.

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Antonyms

1. Rudeness – A lack of courtesy or respect, the opposite of the polite and respectful behavior associated with chivalry.
2. Cowardice – The opposite of bravery, a key virtue in chivalric behavior.
3. Dishonor – The opposite of honor, a central tenet of chivalry.
4. Disrespect – Lack of respect for others, contrary to the courteous and respectful actions advocated by chivalry.
5. Selfishness – Focusing solely on oneself without regard for others, which contrasts with the selfless aspects of chivalry.

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