How to pronounce chivalry
Say it like SHIV-ul-ree. Chivalry has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SHIV).
- SHIV
- ul
- ree
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Chivalry pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SHIVSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- ulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- reeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of chivalry
American and British speakers say chivalry in essentially the same way: /ˈʃɪvəlri/ in the US and /ˈʃɪvəlri/ in the UK.
British respelling: SHIV-ul-ree.
What does chivalry mean?
- The ethical code of the knight prevalent in Medieval Europe, having such primary virtues as mercy towards the poor and oppressed, humility, honour, sacrifice, fear of God, faithfulness, courage and courtesy to ladies.
- Courtesy, respect and honourable conduct, as between opponents in wartime.
- Courteous behaviour, especially that of men towards women.
Where does chivalry come from?
From Middle English chivalerie, a late 13th century loan from Old French chevalerie (“knighthood, chivalry, nobility, cavalry”) (11th century), the -erie (“-ery”) abstract of chevaler (“knight, horseman”), from Medieval Latin caballarius (“
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying chivalry
How do you pronounce chivalry?
Say SHIV-ul-ree. The American pronunciation is /ˈʃɪvəlri/. In British English it is /ˈʃɪvəlri/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in chivalry?
Chivalry has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SHIV). Broken into parts: SHIV · ul · ree.
Do Americans and Brits say chivalry the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈʃɪvəlri/ and the British form is /ˈʃɪvəlri/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.