What is the name of the masked swordsman in the Kirby series?

The masked swordsman in the Kirby series is Meta Knight, an enigmatic rival and occasional ally who wields the golden sword Galaxia.

Meta Knight first appeared in Kirby's Adventure in 1993. He is usually depicted wearing a silver mask, a blue cape, and armor, and he commands the Meta-Knights. Although he often challenges Kirby, Meta Knight follows a strong personal code of honor: in many battles, he offers Kirby a sword before the fight begins.

Meta Knight is more complex than a straightforward villain. He has opposed Kirby, trained him, fought beside him, and become playable in several games. His cape can transform into bat-like wings, giving him the ability to fly or teleport. Players sometimes confuse him with Dark Meta Knight, an evil counterpart from Kirby & the Amazing Mirror, or Galacta Knight, a separate legendary warrior. Those characters are distinct from the series' recurring masked swordsman.