gallantry

[gal-uhn-tree]

noun

plural

gallantries 

1. dashing courage; heroic bravery; noble-minded behavior.

   Synonyms: heroism, valor, daring
   Antonyms: cowardice

2. gallant or courtly attention to women.

   Synonyms: courtliness, chivalry

3. a gallant act, action, or speech.

gallantry

/ ˈɡæləntrɪ /

noun

1. conspicuous courage, esp in war

   the gallantry of the troops

2. polite attentiveness to women

3. a gallant action, speech, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of gallantry¹

1600–10; < Middle French galanterie, equivalent to Old French galant ( gallant ) + -erie -ry

Example Sentences

She is one of 20 recipients of the civilian gallantry awards, and one of four awarded it posthumously.

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The Foreign Office has announced an additional honours recognising the work of overseas residents or service abroad, and there are separate lists covering gallantry awards and for service personnel in the military.

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He had been mentioned in dispatches for his "gallantry" for rescuing a wounded comrade under heavy fire, something he did on "more than one occasion", his officer said.

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For his actions in fierce fighting over several days in September 2006 he was awarded the Military Cross - the third-highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy.

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One German soldier called the day’s battle “an amazing spectacle of unexampled gallantry, courage and bull-dog determination on both sides.”

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Related Words

• boldness 
• courage 
• valor