So what can you find below? Some of the most relevant terms that relate to our holy warrior. But keep in mind that I gave my best in trying to make this an exhaustive resource. That being said, I'm not an actual dictionary. So, any addition you may have is most welcome.
What this list is not
So this list is not in connection to tabletop games, per se. Whether we are talking Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, or any other tabletop fantasy RPG. To conclude, this article is NOT a comprehensive list of the Paladin class' spell names, abilities, artifacts, and so on. But maybe that's an idea for another time.
What this list actually is
So to clarify... This list is a database of words or expressions that refer to the Paladin class or ideal. They are synonyms for the Paladin terminology. To put it another way: words that connect you to this idealistic role. Or comments that make you think about the Paladin archetype or mentality.
With that out of the way, let's now see a list of semantic family and semantic field words and expressions that relate to the Paladin.
Words that can be considered direct synonyms
These words are all part of the semantic family of the Paladin keyword. In D&D and other media, these expressions and words might be variations of the Paladin class or specific roles or paths a Paladin can take.
Angel Knight
Angelic Warrior
Avenger
Crusader
Holy Knight
Holy Warrior
Judicator
Justicar
Justicator
Lawbringer
Lightbringer
Retributer
Sacred Warrior
Templar
Vindicator
White Knight
Greater extent synonyms
In this category, we are still in the semantic family for the Paladin. So these words can be used as synonyms for the word "Paladin". But they aren't quite a perfect description. For such an expression the list above should be more representative.
Champion
Defender
Exemplar
Guardian
Hero
Heroine
Loyalist
Paragon
Protector
Shielder
Lesser extent synonyms
We now move to a different category. These are words that make up the semantic field of the word Paladin. They should not be used as replacements unless the scenario permits it! Generally speaking, they should exemplify traits of a Paladin or Paladin-like behavior. Whether it's an RPG class, person, character, or even action. Going even further, these are words that make up the Paladin soup, so to speak.
Absolution
Adamant
Apotheosis
Benefactor
Chivalrous
Comeuppance
Compendium
Divine
Epitome
Equilibrium
Exaltation
Excellence
Excelsior
Fanaticism
Gallantry
Holy
Judge
Judgment
Justice
Law
Libram
Light
Lightforged
Oath
Palace
Palatine
Paradigm
Peace
Prestige
Radiance
Radiant
Redemption
Repentance
Resolute
Retribution
Sagacious
Saviour
Template
Valiance
Zealotry
Expressions
In this last category, I want to throw at you a bunch of expressions. They are just some various utterances I've come across and felt that they tickle my Paladin spot, If you allow me this saying.
A Ray of Golden Light
Angelic Keeper
Beacon of Light
Cosmic Crusader
Divine Truth
Double-Edged Sword
Emissary of Light
Eternal Palace
Eternal Paladin
Exemplar of Justice
Follow the Light
Guiding Light
Mandate of Heaven
Shield of the Realm
The Judgement Crown
The Order of the Light
The Palace of Eternal Life
The Path of Darkness
The Path of Light
Well of Wisdom
The briefest history ever
Historically though, what does the word Paladin really mean? Well, according to Google it's a historical noun that means the following:
Any of the twelve peers of Charlemagne's court, of whom the Count Palatine was the chief.
