Knowles Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Knowles come from? What does the surname Knowles mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Knowles and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Newell, Knoles
Surname Knowles Origin: What does the last name Knowles mean?
The surname Knowles is of English origin, deriving from the Old English word for "at the knoll," which describes a person who lived at a hill or summit. It can also be an Anglicized version of the Irish name Ó Tnúthghail, meaning people of the tribe. The surname Knowles has been documented in England since the early 14th century and has a rich history closely linked with the United Kingdom.
YourRoots data confirms the global spread of the Knowles surname, with records in countries like the United States suggesting a widespread presence over the centuries. By the 16th century, the surname had notably increased in the United States and continued to be prominent in regions worldwide. Today, the Knowles surname remains well-known in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, reflecting a rich heritage that has transcended borders and cultures.
Knowles Last Name History: Where did the last name Knowles come from?
Origin of Knowles Surname: Where does the last name Knowles originate from?
From the data available in YourRoots, the surname Knowles was first documented in England, United Kingdom, during the early 14th century. Please note that this only represents the findings from YourRoots data for the exact “Knowles” spelling and does not incorporate other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Knowles: What does the Knowles surname history look like in the early days?
The “Knowles” surname stayed closely linked with the United Kingdom from the 14th through the 15th century. The YourRoots database displays Knowles family records in countries like the United States, suggesting a global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Knowles surname today?
By the 16th century, the volume of records containing the Knowles surname increased notably in the United States. By the early 17th century, it had exceeded the United Kingdom, a trend that endured into the 18th and 19th centuries. The “Knowles” surname remains well-known in the United States and other regions worldwide. It appears in numerous countries, with the United States and the United Kingdom being the most prominent.
Explore Knowles last name heritage and Knowles surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Knowles Surame?
Solange Knowles
Solange Piaget Knowles (born June 24, 1986) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She is known for her unique music style influenced by Motown girl groups and 1980s pop and R&B. Solange has released several successful albums and won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance.
Beyoncé Knowles
Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is a renowned American singer, actress, and businesswoman. Born on September 4, 1981, she gained fame as the lead singer of Destiny's Child before embarking on a successful solo career. Known for hits like "Single Ladies" and "Crazy in Love," Beyoncé has won multiple Grammy Awards and starred in films like "Dreamgirls."
Shanica Knowles
Shanica Knowles (born Nov 17, 1990) is an American actress and singer known for her roles in popular TV shows like Hannah Montana and The Young and the Restless. She has also appeared in movies like Jump In! and Surviving Compton. Despite sharing the last name, she is not related to Beyoncé or Solange Knowles.
Abiather J. Knowles
Abiather J. Knowles (Mar 15, 1830 - Feb 11, 1905) was an American soldier in the Civil War. Known for bravery, he received the Medal of Honor for his actions at the First Battle of Bull Run. Originally from La Grange, Maine, Knowles was honored for removing dead and wounded soldiers under heavy fire.
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