Definitions for: Chivalry

[n] courtesy towards women
[n] the medieval principles of knighthood

Webster (1913) Definition: Chiv"al*ry, n. [F. chevalerie, fr. chevalier knight,
OF., horseman. See Chevalier, and cf. Cavalry.]
1. A body or order of cavaliers or knights serving on
horseback; illustrious warriors, collectively; cavalry.
``His Memphian chivalry.'' --Milton.

By his light Did all the chivalry of England move,
To do brave acts. --Shak.

2. The dignity or system of knighthood; the spirit, usages,
or manners of knighthood; the practice of knight-errantry.
--Dryden.

3. The qualifications or character of knights, as valor,
dexterity in arms, courtesy, etc.

The glory of our Troy this day doth lie On his fair
worth and single chivalry. --Shak.

4. (Eng. Law) A tenure of lands by knight's service; that is,
by the condition of a knight's performing service on
horseback, or of performing some noble or military service
to his lord.

5. Exploit. [Obs.] --Sir P. Sidney.

Court of chivalry, a court formerly held before the lord
high constable and earl marshal of England as judges,
having cognizance of contracts and other matters relating
to deeds of arms and war. --Blackstone.

Synonyms: gallantry, politesse

See Also: courtesy, good manners, principle

Try our:
Scrabble Word Finder

Scrabble Cheat

Words With Friends Cheat

Hanging With Friends Cheat

Scramble With Friends Cheat

Ruzzle Cheat

Related Resources:
animals beginning with e
animlas that start with h
e letter animals