Unknightly meaning

The meaning of unknightly can be described as behavior that is not chivalrous or honorable.


Unknightly definitions

Word backwards ylthginknu
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "unknightly" is an adjective.
Syllabic division un-knight-ly
Plural The plural of the word "unknightly" is "unknightlies".
Total letters 10
Vogais (2) u,i
Consonants (7) n,k,g,h,t,l,y

Unknightly behavior refers to actions or conduct that goes against the chivalric code of knights during the medieval period. Knights were expected to uphold virtues such as honor, bravery, courtesy, and loyalty. Any behavior that deviated from these ideals was considered unknightly and dishonorable.

Origins of Unknightly Behavior

Unknightly behavior could encompass a wide range of actions, including cowardice in battle, betrayal of one's lord, mistreatment of prisoners or hostages, or acts of violence against the innocent. These actions were seen as tarnishing the reputation of knights and undermining the noble image they sought to uphold.

Consequences of Unknightly Conduct

Knights who engaged in unknightly behavior risked losing their honor and status within the knightly class. In some cases, they could be stripped of their titles and lands, becoming outcasts in society. The shame of being labeled as dishonorable could follow a knight for the rest of their life, impacting their standing in both noble and common circles.

Examples of Unknightly Actions

Unknightly behavior was not limited to one specific act but could manifest in various ways. For example, a knight who abandoned their comrades in battle or failed to come to the aid of a fellow knight in need would be viewed as acting dishonorably. Similarly, knights who resorted to deceit, treachery, or cruelty in their interactions with others were considered to be behaving in an unknightly manner.

Redemption and Rehabilitation

In some cases, knights who had engaged in unknightly behavior sought redemption through acts of penance or valor. By performing acts of bravery, showing loyalty to their lord, or demonstrating a commitment to upholding the chivalric code, a knight could work towards restoring their honor and reputation. However, the stain of unknightly conduct was not easily erased, and some knights found it challenging to overcome the shadow of their past actions.

In conclusion, unknightly behavior represented a deviation from the noble ideals and virtues that knights were expected to embody. While knights who engaged in such conduct could potentially redeem themselves through acts of valor and loyalty, the consequences of dishonorable actions were severe and long-lasting. Upholding the chivalric code was essential for maintaining the honor and reputation of knights in medieval society.


Unknightly Examples

  1. His unknightly behavior towards the princess was widely criticized.
  2. The nobleman's unknightly conduct brought shame upon his family name.
  3. She found his unknightly manners offensive and disrespectful.
  4. Sir Lancelot was known for his chivalry and would never engage in unknightly behavior.
  5. The knight's unknightly actions tarnished his reputation among his peers.
  6. King Arthur was disappointed in Sir Gawain's unknightly treatment of a fellow knight.
  7. The code of chivalry dictated that knights should always refrain from unknightly conduct.
  8. The knight was stripped of his title for his unknightly actions on the battlefield.
  9. In medieval times, being labeled as unknightly was seen as a grave dishonor.
  10. Despite his noble background, his unknightly behavior showed his true character.


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  • Updated 05/04/2024 - 22:23:42