Engallant

/ɛnˈɡælənt/ verb

Definition

An archaic or rare term meaning to make gallant or courteous, or to treat someone in a gallant manner.

Etymology

From prefix 'en-' (to cause to be) plus 'gallant' (from Old French 'galant', probably from Germantc roots meaning to frolic or be merry). This word is primarily found in historical texts and is largely obsolete.

Kelly Says

This ultra-rare word shows how English used to have dozens of 'en-' verbs (like 'enlarge,' 'enrich,' 'enable') that we've mostly forgotten—'engallant' would have meant 'to make someone act with courtly charm,' which is exactly the kind of verb medieval romance writers would have loved!

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