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

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

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

But the old knight-errantry of the air could not hold up against the new mass attacks.

From Our Army at the Front by Broun, Heywood

My judgment is returned, clear and undisturbed, and that cloud of ignorance is now removed which the continual reading of those books of knight-errantry had cast over my understanding.

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

When knight-errantry is proposed to him, he reduces that also to the established order.

From The Gentle Reader by Crothers, Samuel McChord