Relating to the medieval system of knighthood or the qualities of honor, courage, and courtesy associated with knights.
From Old French 'chevalerie' (horsemanship, knighthood) derived from 'cheval' (horse). The term evolved in English during the 12th-13th centuries to describe the idealized code of conduct knights were supposed to follow.
The word 'chivalric' peaked in literary importance during the Middle Ages, but the ideals it represents—honor, protecting the vulnerable, and personal integrity—became timeless cultural values that writers still celebrate in fantasy and historical fiction today.
Chivalry emerged as a feudal warrior code (11th-13th centuries) centered exclusively on male knights. The ideology embedded expectations that women occupy protected but subordinate roles—'ladies' to be defended rather than agents themselves.
Use 'chivalric' to describe the historical system as-is, but when praising conduct, prefer 'respectful,' 'fair,' or 'honorable' to avoid gendered baggage.
["honorable","fair","respectful","courteous"]
Women were systematized out of chivalric codes; historical women knights (rare, like Joan of Arc) and female rulers who showed comparable virtues deserve explicit recognition.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.