How Do You Spell UNKNIGHTLY?

Pronunciation: [ʌnnˈa͡ɪtli] (IPA)

The word "Unknightly" is spelled with the letter "k" instead of "n" in the second syllable. This spelling follows the convention of Old English, where the letter "k" was often used instead of "n" in certain words. The IPA phonetic transcription for "Unknightly" is /ʌnˈnaɪtli/, with the stress on the second syllable. The prefix "un" means "not" or "opposite of", so "Unknightly" refers to behavior that is not in line with the chivalrous code of a knight.

UNKNIGHTLY Meaning and Definition

1. Unknightly is an adjective that describes actions, behaviors, or qualities that are not characteristic of a knight or do not adhere to the ideals and code of chivalry associated with knighthood. It is derived from the word "knight," which refers to a medieval warrior belonging to a noble rank and often associated with honor, bravery, and the protection of the weak.

   Unknightly can describe actions that are unbecoming or dishonorable, contrasting with the ethical conduct expected from a knight. It implies behavior that lacks the nobility, courtesy, and gallantry that are typically associated with knights and their obligations. This includes engaging in deceit, cruelty, or dishonor, as well as neglecting the principles of fairness and justice.

   Furthermore, unknightly can also refer to qualities or attributes that are inconsistent with the knightly virtues. This can include cowardice, lack of loyalty, or failure to fulfill one's obligations and responsibilities as a knight. It suggests a departure from the noble ideals of dedication, selflessness, and honor that knights are expected to embody.

   Overall, unknightly is used to describe actions, behaviors, or qualities that deviate from the traditional code of conduct and virtues associated with knighthood, highlighting behavior that is lacking in honor, fairness, or chivalry.

2. Unbecoming a knight.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNKNIGHTLY

• ynknightly
• hnknightly
• jnknightly
• inknightly
• 8nknightly
• 7nknightly
• ubknightly
• umknightly
• ujknightly
• uhknightly
• unjnightly
• unmnightly
• unlnightly
• unonightly
• uninightly
• unkbightly
• unkmightly
• unkjightly
• unkhightly
• unknughtly

Etymology of UNKNIGHTLY

The word "unknightly" is derived from the combination of two elements: "un-" and "knightly".

The prefix "un-" comes from Middle English and Old English, where it was used to negate or reverse the meaning of a word. In this case, "un-" is used to indicate the opposite or absence of the quality associated with "knightly".

The term "knightly" is derived from the word "knight", which originated from Old English "cniht", meaning a young boy or servant, and eventually came to denote a military servant or a noble warrior. Over time, "knightly" developed to refer to the characteristics or behaviors associated with knights, such as chivalry, bravery, honor, and loyalty.

Therefore, "unknightly" refers to something that is contrary or lacking in the qualities traditionally associated with knights.