E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Gau’vaine or Ga’wain
= Gau-wain (2 syl., g hard). Sir Gauvaine the Courteous. One of Arthur’s knights, and his nephew. He challenged the Green Knight, and struck off his head; but the headless knight picked up his poll again and walked off, telling Sir Gauvaine to meet him twelve months hence. Sir Gauvaine kept his appointment, and was hospitably entertained; but, taking possession of the girdle belonging to the lady of the house, was chastised by the Green Knight, confessed his fault, and was forgiven.
