knighthood

noun

knight·​hood ˈnīt-ˌhu̇d 

1

: the rank, dignity, or profession of a knight

2

: the qualities befitting a knight : chivalry

3

: knights as a class or body

Examples of knighthood in a Sentence

The Queen awarded a knighthood to the famous actor.

For their bravery, they were rewarded with knighthood.

Recent Examples on the Web

So, arise, Sir David Beckham, and welcome to the small and exclusive band of people from the football industry to receive one of the highest honours in the United Kingdom — a knighthood from the royal family. —Daniel Taylor, New York Times, 14 June 2025

Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman was awarded a knighthood Friday in King Charles’ Birthday Honours. —Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 13 June 2025

Oldman, 67, who played Harry Potter’s godfather Sirius Black in several of the movies in the franchise, was awarded a knighthood for services to drama. —Olivia Kemp, CNN Money, 13 June 2025

The former Manchester United player was put forward to receive a knighthood over ten years ago, with a nomination in 2011, U.K. newspaper The Guardian reported. —Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 6 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for knighthood

• allgood
• basswood
• beechwood
• bellwood
• birchwood
• boxwood
• boyhood
• brushwood
• childhood
• cordwood
• dogwood
• driftwood

Kids Definition

knighthood

noun

knight·​hood ˈnīt-ˌhu̇d 

1

: the rank, dignity, or profession of a knight

2

: the qualities that a knight should have

3

: knights as a class or body