Is 'gallant' English, or is it actually French?

'Gallant' is a word borrowed from French 'galant'. The word entered the English language some time around the 15th century.

gallant [adjective] [15th century]

• showy in dress or bearing
• smart
• splendid
• spirited
• nobly chivalrous and often self-sacrificing

See 'gallant' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from French.

Etymology: Middle English 'galaunt' from Middle French 'galant' from present participle of 'galer' to have a good time, from Old French, from 'gale' pleasure, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English 'wela' weal

See more loan words from 1400s.