What does chivalrously mean?
'Chivalrously' is an adverb describing behaviour marked by the virtues traditionally associated with medieval knights: courage, courtesy, honour, and especially gallantry towards women. A man who chivalrously gives up his seat, shields someone from the rain, or comes to another's defence is acting with a gracious, protective nobility that goes beyond ordinary politeness. The word derives from 'chivalry', which entered English from Old French 'chevalerie' (knighthood), ultimately rooted in the Latin 'caballus' meaning horse — a reminder that the original chivalrous act was performed from the saddle. Today the word retains a formal, slightly literary flavour and is typically applied to men's conduct, though its use has broadened to describe anyone acting with selfless honour. Because modern attitudes towards gendered courtesy have shifted, 'chivalrously' can sometimes read as quaint or dated, yet it still powerfully evokes a code of noble conduct that many admire.
adverbIn a manner showing the qualities traditionally associated with a knight — courage, courtesy, and honour, especially towards women; in a gallant and courteous way.
- In a manner showing courtesy, honour, and gallantry, especially by a man towards women.
- In a manner displaying the bravery and high-minded conduct idealized in medieval knighthood.
"He chivalrously offered his coat when the rain began to fall."
"He chivalrously stepped aside to let her board the train first."
"The young officer chivalrously defended the villagers against the bandits."
Every time you say 'chivalrously', you're speaking a little medieval French — it traces straight back to 'cheval', the horse a knight rode into battle on.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of chivalrously
'Chivalrously' is formed from the adjective 'chivalrous' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. Its ultimate root is the Old French 'chevalerie' (knighthood), from 'chevalier' (knight), which itself descends from the Late Latin 'caballarius' (horseman), derived from Latin 'caballus' (horse). English borrowed 'chivalry' via Old French in the medieval period, and the adjective and adverb followed in later centuries as abstract vocabulary for knightly conduct. Cognates include 'cavalier' (from Italian 'cavaliere') and 'chevalier', all sharing the same equine root.
Related word forms
How chivalrously is actually used
The word carries a formal, somewhat literary register and is most often used of men's behaviour towards women. In modern usage it can occasionally sound old-fashioned or even faintly patronising, depending on context, though it generally retains positive connotations of honour and generosity.
Easily confused with chivalrously
Though they rhyme, 'jealousy' is a noun meaning envy or resentment, while 'chivalrously' is an adverb describing courteous, knightly behaviour.