chivalry

Concise Oxford English Dictionary © 2008 Oxford University Press:
chivalry /ˈʃɪv(ə)lri/

▶noun

• 1 the medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code.

  ■ the combination of qualities expected of an ideal knight, especially courage, honour, courtesy, justice, and a readiness to help the weak.

  ■ courteous behaviour, especially that of a man towards women.

• 2 archaic knights, noblemen, and horsemen collectively.

– derivatives
chivalric adjective.

– origin ME: from OFr. chevalerie, from med. L. caballerius, for late L. caballarius (see chevalier).