knight

[/naɪt/]
nounmasculinepl: knights
cavaleiro
1. A medieval warrior of noble birth trained to fight on horseback
The knight rode into battle on his horse, wearing shining armor.
O cavaleiro cavalgou para a batalha, usando uma armadura brilhante.
2. A chess piece shaped like a horse's head
In chess, the knight moves in an L-shaped pattern.
No xadrez, o cavaleiro se move em um padrão em forma de L.
3. A man awarded a title of honor by a monarch
He was appointed a knight for his service to the country.
Ele foi nomeado cavaleiro por seu serviço ao país.
4. A man devoted to a lady or a cause; a gallant
He behaved like a true knight, always protecting the innocent.
Ele se comportou como um verdadeiro cavaleiro, sempre protegendo os inocentes.
The term 'knight' has deep roots in medieval European culture and remains iconic in English-speaking countries through literature, film, and chess. In Brazil and Portugal, 'cavaleiro' carries the same romantic and historical associations, though knighthood as a modern honor system is primarily associated with British tradition. The image of the knight continues to symbolize chivalry, honor, and bravery in popular culture worldwide.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
warriornoblegentlemanchampioncrusader
Antonyms / Antônimos
knavepeasantcowardvillain

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
cavaleiro
Standard term used in most contexts; also means 'horseman' or 'gentleman'
Portugal
cavaleiro
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; also 'cavaleiro medieval' for medieval knight
Chess terminology
cavalo
In chess specifically, often called 'cavalo' (horse) rather than 'cavaleiro'
Heraldry/Nobility
cavaleiro
Used in historical and noble contexts with the same meaning as English

Related Words

knighthoodchivalryarmorquestsquiremedievalmonarchy

Related Idioms & Phrases

knight in shining armor - um cavaleiro de brilhante armadura (a savior or noble rescuer)
white knight - cavaleiro branco (a rescuer or protector, often in business context)
dark knight - cavaleiro escuro (a mysterious or morally ambiguous figure)
to knight someone - nomear alguém cavaleiro (to confer knighthood)
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →