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.
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
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME KNIGHT
Famous People With Knight Surame?
Suge Knight
Marion Hugh "Suge" Knight Jr. (April 19, 1965 - ) is an American record executive and former NFL player known for co-founding Death Row Records. He played a crucial role in the commercial success of gangsta rap in the 1990s, with hit albums like Dr. Dre's "The Chronic" and Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle." Knight's career was marred by legal troubles, including a 28-year prison sentence for a fatal hit-and-run in 2015. Despite his controversial reputation, Knight's impact on the music industry and hip hop culture remains significant.
Gladys Knight
Gladys Maria Knight (born May 28, 1944) is an American singer known as the "Empress of Soul." She rose to fame as the lead vocalist of Gladys Knight & the Pips, recording hits like "Midnight Train to Georgia" and "That's What Friends Are For." Knight has won seven Grammy Awards and is ranked among the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine. She is also an inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Knight's powerful vocals and soulful performances have captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying her legacy as a music icon.
T. R. Knight
Theodore Raymond Knight (born Mar 26, 1973) is an American actor known for his role as Dr. George O'Malley on the ABC series Grey's Anatomy. He received critical acclaim and award nominations for his performance in the medical drama, showcasing his talent on both stage and screen. Knight's openness about his personal life and advocacy for LGBTQ rights have made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Off-screen, he continues to pursue diverse roles, including voice acting in animated series and stage performances in Broadway productions.
Wayne Knight
Wayne Elliot Knight (born Aug 7, 1955) is an American actor known for his roles in popular TV shows like Seinfeld and 3rd Rock from the Sun. He also voiced characters in animated series like Catscratch and films like Toy Story 2. Knight gained recognition for his role as Dennis Nedry in Jurassic Park, earning a Saturn Award nomination. With a diverse career in film, television, and theater, Knight has showcased his talent in a variety of genres and mediums.
Phil Knight
Philip Hampson Knight (born February 24, 1938) is an American billionaire businessman and philanthropist known as the co-founder and chairman emeritus of Nike, Inc. He played a significant role in transforming Nike into a global sports equipment and apparel giant. Knight's entrepreneurial journey began with importing Japanese running shoes, eventually leading to the creation of the iconic Nike brand. Apart from his business success, Knight is also known for his generous donations to educational institutions and healthcare organizations, showcasing his commitment to giving back to society.
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