Mounted soldiers or knights; supporters of King Charles I during the English Civil War; people with a carefree, gallant attitude.
From French 'cavalier' from Italian 'cavaliere' meaning horseman, from Latin 'caballus' (horse). The term evolved from describing mounted warriors to characterizing a dashing, somewhat reckless attitude.
During the English Civil War, 'Cavalier' was actually an insult hurled by Puritans at the king's supporters, implying they were frivolous horsemen. The Cavaliers embraced the name, turning it into a badge of honor for their flamboyant lifestyle.
Historically gendered masculine; figures of romance were coded male. The term carries aristocratic maleness from 17th-century usage.
Use neutrally when referring to historical movements or attitudes. Specify gender only when historical accuracy requires it.
["supporters","loyalists","defenders","protagonists"]
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