knight-errantry

American  

[nahyt-er-uhn-tree] / ˈnaɪtˈɛr ən tri /

noun

plural

knight-errantries

1. the behavior, vocation, or character of a knight-errant.

2. quixotic conduct or action.

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knight errantry British  

noun

1. the practices of a knight errant

2. quixotic behaviour or practices

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Etymology

Origin of knight-errantry

First recorded in 1645–55; knight-errant + -ry

Example Sentences

Emma had forfeited her confidence, and about the third time of their meeting, she heard all Mrs. Elton’s knight-errantry on the subject.—

From "Emma" by Jane Austen

All the cares of state, however, and all the deeds of knight-errantry to defend the wronged and helpless, could not restrain Theseus’ love of danger for the sake of danger.

From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton

This incident of the antebellum days was regarded as one of the best displays of knight-errantry in the annals of the Old Dominion.

From Life Gleanings by Macon, T. J.

Those who heard him were afresh moved with compassion, to see a man who seemed, in all other respects, to have a sound judgment, so distracted when any mention was made of knight-errantry.

From The History of Don Quixote de la Mancha by Cervantes Saavedra, Miguel de

In marked contrast with this splendid knight-errantry was the solid and earnest character of de Montfort, who had distinguished himself, as was his wont, at the siege of Carcassonne.

From A History of The Inquisition of The Middle Ages; volume I by Lea, Henry Charles