1. a heroic champion or defender of a noble cause
2. any of the twelve legendary peers of Charlemagne’s court
Usage: historical; medieval literature

Examples

• The civil rights lawyer was considered a paladin of justice.
• She became a paladin for environmental protection.
• The senator positioned himself as a paladin of the working class.
• Roland was the most famous paladin in Charlemagne’s court.
• The story featured a brave paladin defending the innocent.
• He saw himself as a paladin fighting against corruption.