n. 1 the medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code. 2 the combination of qualities expected of an ideal knight, esp. courage, honour, courtesy, justice, and readiness to help the weak. 3 a man's courteous behaviour, esp. towards women. 4 archaic knights, noblemen, and horsemen collectively. chivalric adj.
[ ME f. OF chevalerie etc. f. med.L caballerius for LL caballarius horseman: see CAVALIER ]