Gallantry

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gallantry

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

GAL-un-tree  /ˈɡaləntri/

Definition

Courageous and noble behaviour, especially in battle; polite attention and respect given by men to women; a gallant act.

Plain meaning

Gallantry means brave, noble conduct — especially in combat or in a chivalric sense. A gallantry medal recognises acts of exceptional courage. Also means courteous attentiveness to women.

Register

Formal and somewhat elevated. The military gallantry sense is standard and serious. The courtly attention sense is now slightly archaic and can read as patronising in contemporary contexts.