Knight Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Knight come from? What does the surname Knight mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Knight and family migration on YourRoots Map.
McKnight, Knights
Surname Knight Origin: What does the last name Knight mean?
The surname Knight is of English origin, with roots dating back to the early 11th century. Derived from the Old English term for a mounted soldier or servant, the name Knight was initially associated with individuals of noble or chivalrous backgrounds. Over time, it became a common surname in England, particularly during the medieval period. By the 16th century, the Knight surname had spread to the United States, where it remains prevalent today among English, Scottish, and Irish descendants. In 2014, Knight was ranked 88th in England and 206th in the United States, reflecting its enduring popularity and historical significance.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Knight surname in the United Kingdom since the early 11th century, aligning with its English origins. As the centuries passed, the surname expanded globally, with notable concentrations in the United States and the United Kingdom. Today, the Knight surname can be found in various countries worldwide, showcasing its widespread distribution and enduring legacy. This historical surname signifies a connection to the noble tradition of knighthood and continues to resonate across diverse cultures and regions in the contemporary world.
Knight Last Name History: Where did the last name Knight come from?
Origin of Knight Surname: Where does the last name Knight originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Knight first appeared in records from the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 11th century. Please remember that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Knight” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Knight: What does the Knight surname history look like in the early days?
The “Knight” surname had its roots deeply intertwined with England from the 11th through the 15th century. The frequency of Knight family records in the United Kingdom showed a substantial increase during this period. From the 16th century, there was a noticeable increase in the volume of records in the United States, indicating a significant shift in the distribution of the surname.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Knight surname today?
By the 16th century, the volume of records with the Knight surname grew significantly in the United States. By the 17th century, it had surpassed the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. The “Knight” surname remains prominent in the United States and the United Kingdom, reflecting its historical roots and global spread. Today, it can be found in numerous regions worldwide.
Explore Knight last name heritage and Knight surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Knight Surame?
Gladys Knight
Gladys Maria Knight (May 28, 1944 - present) is an American singer known as the "Empress of Soul." She gained fame with Gladys Knight & the Pips, winning seven Grammy Awards. Knight's hits include "Midnight Train to Georgia" and "That's What Friends Are For." She is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
Shirley Knight
Shirley Knight Hopkins (July 5, 1936 – April 22, 2020) was an acclaimed American actress known for her versatile roles in over 50 films, TV shows, and stage productions. She received multiple award nominations and won a Tony Award for her performance in Kennedy's Children. Knight's career spanned from the 1960s to the early 2000s, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Aramis Knight
Aramis Michael Knight (Oct 3, 1999 - ) is an American actor known for his roles in popular TV shows like "Lost", "Dexter", and "Into the Badlands". With a diverse background, Knight has showcased his talent on both the big and small screens, captivating audiences with his performances.
Beverley Knight
Beverley Anne Knight (Mar 22, 1973 - ) is a British singer, songwriter, and actress known for her soulful voice and hit singles like "Greatest Day" and "Shoulda Woulda Coulda". She has released nine studio albums and received numerous awards for her contributions to British music.
Jak Knight
Jakim Maulana Knight (November 6, 1993 - July 14, 2022) was an American actor and stand-up comedian known for his roles as DeVon in the Netflix sitcom Big Mouth and Jak in the Peacock series Bust Down. He also appeared in the movie LieGuys and provided vocals on Aminé's album Limbo.
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