Definition
An adjective to describe a person who is brave, courteous, and attentive towards women.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
Brave, chivalrous, fearless, heroic, valiant, daring, noble, courageous
Antonyms
Cowardly, fearful, timid, unheroic
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | gallants, gallant |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | gallant |
| Adverb | gallantly |
Example Sentences
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The gallant knight fearlessly charged into battle, displaying extraordinary courage and chivalry as he defended the honor of his kingdom.
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She blushed as her gallant suitor presented her with a bouquet of roses and gracefully swept her off her feet with his charming manners.
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The firefighters risked their lives to rescue the trapped passengers from the burning building, earning them the title of gallant heroes in the community.
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He was known for his gallant gestures of holding doors open for others, offering his seat to the elderly, and always displaying kindness and respect towards everyone he encountered.
Usage
The word “gallant” originated from the Old French word “galant,” which meant “courteous” or “brave.” It is derived from the Latin word “galantus,” which means “pleasant” or “charming.” The term “gallant” was initially used to describe a man who displayed courteous and chivalrous behavior, especially towards women. Over time, it also came to denote bravery, courage, and heroic actions.
In medieval times, the concept of chivalry and gallantry was highly valued among knights and noblemen. A gallant man was expected to uphold a code of conduct that emphasized honor, integrity, and respect towards others. This included acts of bravery in battle, courteous behavior towards women, and adherence to moral principles.
Today, the term “gallant” continues to be used to describe individuals who display bravery, courage, and chivalry. It is often associated with acts of valor, selflessness, and noble character. Whether it is a soldier risking their life for their country, a person showing kindness and respect towards others, or someone displaying exceptional manners and charm, being gallant is seen as a commendable trait.
Variations of the word “gallant” include “gallantry” (noun form) and “gallantly” (adverb form). These variations can be used to further emphasize the quality or manner in which someone displays gallant behavior. For example, one might commend someone for their gallantry in the face of danger or praise them for acting gallantly in a difficult situation.
Prefixes or suffixes are not commonly added to the word “gallant” to alter its meaning. However, it can be combined with other words to form compound phrases that describe specific acts or characteristics. For instance, “gallant gesture,” “gallant display of bravery,” or “gallant knight.”