unknightly

[ uhn-nahyt-lee ]

adjective

1. unworthy of a knight.
2. not like a knight.

adverb

1. in a manner unworthy of a knight.

Word History and Origins

Origin of unknightly¹

1375–1425; late Middle English (adj.); un- ¹, knightly

Example Sentences

Sir Knight, why didst thou strike my companion so unknightly a blow as that?

From Project Gutenberg

Sotomayor behaved in most unknightly fashion, and after being ransomed, accused Bayard of ill-treating him.

From Project Gutenberg

Unknightly, un-nīt′li, adj. contrary to the rules of chivalry, unbecoming a knight.

From Project Gutenberg

Nay, 'tis such a strange and unknightly promise, lady, how may I pledge my word to its fulfilment?

From Project Gutenberg

She took the fancy of some amorous profligate; she resisted his unknightly attentions; she was done to death.

From Project Gutenberg