Chivalry is the code of behavior that medieval knights were supposed to follow, including bravery, honor, and protection of the weak. Today it can also mean polite, respectful behavior, especially by men toward others.
“Chivalry” comes from Old French “chevalerie,” meaning “knighthood” or “horsemanship,” from “cheval,” meaning “horse.” It originally referred to mounted warriors and the values expected of them.
Chivalry started as a horse word—literally about guys on horseback—before it became about manners and romance. The modern idea of “chivalrous” behavior is partly a Victorian rewrite of medieval reality, which was often much rougher. When we say “chivalry is dead,” we’re really mourning a story more than a historical fact.
'Chivalry' originated in medieval knightly codes that were explicitly male and often framed women as fragile, pure, or in need of protection. Later social uses preserved gendered expectations, casting men as protectors and women as passive recipients of courtesy.
Use 'chivalry' historically or critically rather than as a modern behavioral ideal; for contemporary norms, prefer terms like 'mutual respect' or 'consideration' that apply across genders.
["courtesy","mutual respect","consideration","good manners"]
When discussing chivalry, note how such codes both constrained men and limited women’s autonomy, and highlight modern movements toward reciprocal, gender-neutral respect.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.