Definition

1. Proper Noun:
   • A Knight of the Round Table is one of the legendary knights who served King Arthur and were members of his royal court. They were distinguished by their seat at a round table, which symbolized equality among the fellowship. These knights are central figures in Arthurian legend, renowned for their chivalry, bravery, and quests, most famously the search for the Holy Grail.

Usage Examples

• Proper Noun:
  • Sir Lancelot is the most famous Knight of the Round Table.
  • The stories describe the adventures and moral challenges faced by each Knight of the Round Table.
  • To become a Knight of the Round Table was considered the highest honor in Arthur's kingdom.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used metaphorically to describe a group of esteemed peers or advisors considered equal in status.
  • The CEO assembled her own Knights of the Round Table, a council of trusted executives.

Variants and Related Words

• Round Table: (Proper Noun) The table around which King Arthur and his knights sat. By extension, it can refer to a meeting where all participants have equal status.
• Arthurian: (Adjective) Relating to King Arthur and his legends.
• Chivalry: (Noun) The medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code, which the Knights of the Round Table were expected to embody.

Synonyms

• Arthurian knight: A more general term for any knight in the legends of King Arthur.
• Paladin: Historically, a trusted knight; in legend, a paragon of chivalry, similar to a Knight of the Round Table.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A seat at the Round Table: An invitation to join an exclusive or influential group of equals.
  • Earning that promotion meant she finally had a seat at the Round Table.

Noun

1. in the Arthurian legend, a knight of King Arthur's court