carpet knight en · NOUN
Etymology
In the sense of a non-military knight: so called because they were created while kneeling on a carpet, not the field.
Meanings
- (historical) One made a knight during a time of peace and therefore for some reason other than military distinction or service.
-
(obsolete) A knight who enjoys ease and security, or luxury, and has not known the hardships of the field.
He is knight dubbed with unhatched rapier and / on carpet consideration
c. 1601–1602, William Shakespeare, Twelfth Night, act 3, scene 4:
- (dated) One who avoids hard work; a fop; an idler.
- (obsolete) A lady's man.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| carpet knights | Number=Plur | lexicographic |