gallantry
Meaning
brave behaviour, especially in battle
polite and kind behaviour, especially by a man towards a woman
Structure
Usage
he was awarded a medal for gallantry in combat.
an old-fashioned sort of gallantry led him to hold the door open for her.
the novel is filled with tales of romance and gallantry.
Etymology
the word 'gallantry' entered english in the late 16th century from the french 'galanterie', which itself evolved from the old french adjective 'galant'. the frankish root 'gail-' conveyed notions of liveliness, merriment, and impetuous spirit, qualities associated with a festive or bold demeanor. over time in french and english, the core sense of spirited courage on the battlefield became intertwined with the refined manners and elaborate courtesy expected of a fashionable gentleman, especially towards women. thus, the modern term encapsulates the dual concepts of heroic bravery and chivalrous politeness, both seen as expressions of a noble and spirited character.
Analysis
gallant (from old french 'galant', meaning brave, spirited, stylish, ultimately from a frankish/germanic root related to 'gala' meaning festivity or merriment); ry (a noun-forming suffix of middle english origin, from old french '-erie', denoting a state, condition, or collective body).