knightly
Meaning
characteristic of or suitable for a knight; chivalrous, brave, and courteous.
Structure
Usage
he behaved in a knightly manner, always defending the weak and honoring his promises.
the knightly virtues of courage and loyalty were highly praised in medieval literature.
she was impressed by his knightly conduct during the tournament.
Etymology
the word "knightly" is a direct english formation from the native english word "knight." the old english ancestor, cniht, originally referred broadly to a young man or servant, but its meaning specialized over time to denote a mounted warrior of noble status, particularly in the feudal system. the suffix "-ly," from old english -līc, is a prolific adjective-forming element meaning "having the character or form of." therefore, "knightly" literally means "having the qualities of a knight," evolving from a term for a social role to an adjective describing the idealized attributes of chivalry, bravery, and courtesy associated with that role.
Analysis
knight (from old english cniht, meaning "boy, youth, servant, warrior") + ly (from old english -līc, an adjective-forming suffix meaning "having the qualities of").