Gallant: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone's behavior as polite and noble, especially towards women. Can also imply bravery in a more romantic or courtly sense.

• He was a gallant gentleman, always opening doors for others
• The soldier performed a gallant act by saving the child from the burning building

Used to describe someone who shows courage and faces dangerous or difficult situations without fear. The term is very broad and can apply to a variety of scenarios.

• The firefighters were very brave when they entered the burning building
• She made a brave decision to stand up against bullying

Describes actions or events that are exceptionally brave or admirable, often in the context of saving others or facing grave danger. It usually implies a larger scale of impact.

• Her heroic efforts during the disaster saved many lives
• The heroic deeds of the soldiers were remembered for generations

Used to describe a man's courteous and honorable behavior, particularly towards women. Often associated with medieval knighthood and the ideals of knighthood such as bravery, honor, and respect for women.

• He was chivalrous, always making sure his date was comfortable and respected
• In medieval tales, knights were depicted as chivalrous heroes

Used to describe someone who is brave, courteous, and attentive, especially towards women. It often has a romantic or chivalrous connotation.

• The gallant knight rode into the battlefield without fear.
• He was a gallant man, always holding the door open for others.

A respectful term for a man who is courteous, polite, and shows good manners. It is commonly used to describe socially refined behavior.

• He is every bit the gentleman, always helping others and speaking politely.
• A true gentleman stands when a lady enters the room.

Refers to a man who is courting or seeking to marry a particular woman. It often emphasizes the intention of marriage.

• Her suitor visited her every Sunday with flowers and letters.
• The princess had many suitors, but she only had eyes for the brave knight.

An old-fashioned term for a boyfriend or admirer, especially one who is attentive and polished in appearance and manners.

• She went to the dance with her beau, who was dressed in a sharp suit.
• In the 1800s, a young lady's beau was expected to call on her family formally.