gallantry

noun

gal·​lant·​ry ˈga-lən-trē How to pronounce gallantry (audio)
plural gallantries
1
archaic : gallant appearance
2
a
: an act of marked courtesy
b
: courteous attention to a lady
c
: amorous attention or pursuit
3
: spirited and conspicuous bravery

Examples of gallantry in a Sentence

Many women were charmed by his old-fashioned gallantry. commended the rescuers for their gallantry
Recent Examples on the Web For the next 40 years, not one of the seven Medal of Honor candidates cited for their gallantry in Cambodia or Laos received it. Barry Barnett, Hartford Courant, 26 May 2024 Superheroes have long been depicted wearing capes, which symbolize gallantry and underscore the fanciful nature of the superhero genre. Greg Hanlon, Peoplemag, 25 Apr. 2024 These anecdotes revealed Daniel as someone who respected his elders and displayed gallantry — values Betker strived to impart to his son. Jose R. Gonzalez, The Arizona Republic, 28 Jan. 2024 In 1989 he was awarded a Silver Star for gallantry. Trip Gabriel, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2023 See all Example Sentences for gallantry 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'gallantry.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French galanterie, from galant gallant entry 1 + -erie -ery

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gallantry was in 1613

Dictionary Entries Near gallantry

Cite this Entry

“Gallantry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gallantry. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

gallantry

noun
gal·​lant·​ry ˈgal-ən-trē How to pronounce gallantry (audio)
plural gallantries
1
a
: an act of notable courtesy
b
: courteous attention to a woman
2
: notable bravery

More from Merriam-Webster on gallantry

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