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gallant

adjective

/ˈɡalənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of gallant

Having or showing courage, bravery, and chivalry, especially in the face of danger or adversity.
"The gallant knight rescued the damsel in distress from the tower."

Detailed meaning of gallant

It is often used to describe someone who is willing to take risks or make sacrifices for the benefit of others. The term is often associated with the behavior of a gentleman, such as being polite and respectful towards women, standing up for the weak and the oppressed. In addition, it can also be used to describe someone who is very confident and self-assured, especially in social situations. The term can also be used to describe an action or attitude that is noble and honorable. For example, a gallant rescue attempt or a gallant defense. In general, gallant implies a state of having or showing courage, bravery, and chivalry, especially in the face of danger or adversity, and being polite, respectful, and self-assured.

Example sentences containing gallant

1. He made a gallant effort to save the sinking ship.
2. The gallant knight fought bravely to protect the kingdom.
3. She admired his gallant demeanor as he helped her with her coat.
4. The gallant soldiers stood their ground despite the overwhelming odds.
5. His gallant act of rescuing the puppy from the burning building touched everyone's hearts.
6. The team made a gallant attempt to win the match, but fell just short.

History and etymology of gallant

The adjective 'gallant' has a noble etymology rooted in Old French and ultimately traces its origins to the Latin word 'galantus,' which means 'courteous' or 'gallant.' In Old French, 'galant' referred to someone who displayed bravery, chivalry, and courtesy, particularly in the context of knightly virtues. These qualities were highly esteemed during the medieval period, and 'gallant' became associated with the ideals of courage, honor, and nobility. Over time, the term extended its meaning to describe anyone who displayed courage, especially in the face of danger or adversity. The etymology of 'gallant' thus reflects its historical connection to chivalry and the enduring admiration for acts of bravery and courtesy.

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Further usage examples of gallant

1. He was known for his gallant manner, always polite and respectful.
2. The gallant prince rescued the princess from the dragon in the fairytale.
3. The firefighter received a medal for his gallant actions during the crisis.
4. She was charmed by his gallant behavior on their first date.
5. The gallant efforts of the volunteers during the disaster were highly appreciated.
6. He made a gallant attempt to hide his fear in front of his children.
7. The gallant captain remained on the sinking ship until every passenger was rescued.
8. Despite being wounded, the gallant soldier carried his comrade to safety.
9. His gallant defense of the thesis impressed the committee.
10. The gallant gesture of the stranger restored her faith in humanity.
11. The team's gallant struggle against the defending champions was admirable.
12. He held the door open for her in a gallant manner.
13. The audience applauded the gallant performance by the underdog team.
14. His gallant action in the face of danger earned him the respect of his peers.