Chiv·al·ry n.
1. A body or order of cavaliers or knights serving on horseback; illustrious warriors, collectively; cavalry. “His Memphian chivalry.”
By his light
Did all the chivalry of England move,
To do brave acts. --Shak.
2. The dignity or system of knighthood; the spirit, usages, or manners of knighthood; the practice of knight-errantry.
3. The qualifications or character of knights, as valor, dexterity in arms, courtesy, etc.
The glory of our Troy this day doth lie
On his fair worth and single chivalry. --Shak.
4. Eng. Law A tenure of lands by knight's service; that is, by the condition of a knight's performing service on horseback, or of performing some noble or military service to his lord.
5. Exploit. [Obs.]
Court of chivalry, a court formerly held before the lord high constable and earl marshal of England as judges, having cognizance of contracts and other matters relating to deeds of arms and war.
◄ ►