chivalry
B2Formal, literary
Definition
Meaning
The medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code; the behavior and conduct expected of a knight, such as bravery, courtesy, honor, and gallantry toward women.
Polite and considerate behavior, especially by men towards women; an idealized form of courteous conduct rooted in honor, generosity, and a willingness to protect the vulnerable.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is often used nostalgically or ironically in modern contexts. It can imply outdated gender roles when discussing male-female interactions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is similar, but the concept has deeper historical roots in British culture due to Arthurian legends and medieval history. In the US, it may be more associated with a general ideal of gentlemanly conduct.
Connotations
In both, can carry positive connotations of honor and politeness, but also potentially negative ones of paternalism or outdated gender norms.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in UK English in historical/literary contexts; similar frequency in both for modern figurative use.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
N of chivalryAdj + chivalryV + chivalry (e.g., display, show, embody)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Chivalry is not dead”
- “A knight in shining armour (related concept)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Might be used metaphorically in leadership discussions about ethical conduct ('a chivalrous approach to competitors').
Academic
Common in historical, literary, and gender studies contexts discussing medieval ideals and their modern legacy.
Everyday
Used to comment on polite, protective, or old-fashioned behavior, often between genders.
Technical
Specific term in medieval military and social history.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- N/A - The verb is 'to chivalry' is obsolete and not used.
American English
- N/A - The verb is 'to chivalry' is obsolete and not used.
adverb
British English
- He acted chivalrously, letting others go first.
- N/A - 'Chivalrously' is rare and formal.
American English
- He chivalrously offered her the last seat.
- N/A - 'Chivalrously' is rare and formal.
adjective
British English
- He was praised for his chivalrous conduct during the crisis.
- It was a chivalrous gesture to offer her his coat in the rain.
American English
- Her date's chivalrous manners felt a bit old-fashioned.
- Making a chivalrous stand for what is right is still admirable.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The story is about knights and chivalry.
- He opened the door for her. That was chivalry.
- In the film, the king talks about the importance of chivalry.
- Some people think chivalry means being polite to women.
- The medieval code of chivalry demanded loyalty, courage, and protection of the weak.
- His old-fashioned chivalry was appreciated by some but seen as patronising by others.
- Contemporary debates often question whether chivalry reinforces unequal gender dynamics or simply represents basic courtesy.
- The poet nostalgically lamented the demise of chivalry in the modern, cynical age.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SHIELD (sounds like 'shi-' in chivalry) carried by a VALIANT (sounds like '-valry') knight. Chivalry is the code of the shield-bearing valiant knight.
Conceptual Metaphor
POLITENESS IS A KNIGHTLY CODE; GENTLEMANLY CONDUCT IS A MEDIEVAL SYSTEM.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'благородство' (nobility of character) which is broader. 'Chivalry' is specifically tied to a historical code and gendered courtesy. The direct translation 'рыцарство' is accurate for the core meaning.
Common Mistakes
- Using it to mean simply 'bravery' without the courteous/honorable component. Incorrectly using it as an adjective ('a chivalry man' instead of 'a chivalrous man').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is LEAST associated with the traditional concept of chivalry?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, its original, core meaning was a broader code for knights encompassing bravery, honor, justice, and service. The association with male courtesy towards women is a prominent, but later, aspect.
It is historically and typically associated with male conduct. To describe similar behavior in women, terms like 'courtesy', 'graciousness', or 'nobility' are more standard, though 'chivalry' is occasionally used figuratively.
'Chivalry' is the noun (the code or quality). 'Chivalrous' is the adjective describing a person or action that displays chivalry.
No, it's an idiom expressing the belief that old-fashioned politeness and gentlemanly or ladylike conduct have disappeared from modern life. It's usually said with a tone of nostalgia or complaint.