I. adjective
also gail·lard ˈgalyə(r)d
Etymology: Middle English gaillard, galiard, from Middle French gaillard, from Old French, probably of Celtic origin; akin to Old Irish gal bravery, Cornish gallos power, Welsh gallu to be able; akin to Lithuanian galėti to be able
1. archaic : gay in spirits or appearance : lively
2. archaic : hardy , valiant
II. noun
also gaillard “
( -s )
1. archaic : a galliard man
2.
a.
[Middle French gaillarde, feminine of gaillard, adjective]
: a gay dance with five steps to a phrase popular in the 16th century as a sequel to the stately pavane
b. : a 16th century dance tune in moderately quick triple time with or without an upbeat