Paladin
/ˈpæl.ə.dɪn/noun
A heroic champion or trusted warrior, especially one of noble rank or idealized virtue.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Latin *palatinus*, meaning “of the palace,” because the first paladins were modeled on the elite warriors of Charlemagne’s court, not mystical knights from nowhere.
Etymological Timeline
Latin (Ancient Rome)
Latin
palatinus
“of the Palatine Hill; by extension, of the imperial palace”
Late Latin
Latin
palatinus
“a palace official or one attached to the imperial court”
Old French
Old French
paladin
“a courtier or knight of Charlemagne's legendary inner circle”
Italian
Italian
paladino
“a champion, knight, or heroic defender”
16th Century
English
paladin
“a knightly champion, especially one of Charlemagne's twelve peers”
Modern English
English
paladin
“a noble or heroic champion”