knighthood

noun knight·hood \ ˈnīt-ˌhu̇d \

Definition of knighthood

1 :the rank, dignity, or profession of a knight

2 :the qualities befitting a knight :chivalry

3 :knights as a class or body

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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 of knighthood from the Web

The Sacklers funded astronomical research in the United States and in Europe, where Dr. Sackler’s honors included a knighthood bestowed on him by Queen Elizabeth II.

— emily langer, Washington Post, "Raymond Sackler, philanthropist and maker of OxyContin, dies at 97," 21 July 2017
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Former Prime Minister John Key and former All Black rugby player Michael Jones received honorary knighthoods Monday for their services to New Zealand.

— nick perry, The Seattle Times, "Former New Zealand leader John Key receives knighthood honor," 4 June 2017
In 1999, Moore was awarded the Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II, and knighthood followed in 2003.

— mike barnes & duane byrge, Billboard, "Roger Moore, Who Played James Bond the Longest, Dies at 89," 23 May 2017
He was better known for his humanitarian work in his later years, and was honored with awards from several governments, including a knighthood in 2003.

— krishnadev calamur, The Atlantic, "Roger Moore, Star of James Bond Films, Dies at 89," 23 May 2017
Moore reflected on his knighthood in an interview with The Guardian.

— kalhan rosenblatt, NBC News, "Sir Roger Moore, ‘James Bond’ Actor, Dies at 89 After Cancer Battle," 23 May 2017
Its producer, George Martin—the fifth—ended up with a knighthood, as did its driving force, Paul McCartney.

— tim de lisle, Newsweek, "The Beatles’ ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ at 50: Why It's Still Worth Celebrating," 14 May 2017
The Freddie Awards, first given in 1988, are named for the late Sir Freddie Laker, who achieved knighthood in the United Kingdom for pioneering low-cost air travel across the Atlantic in the 1970s.

— ben mutzabaugh, USA TODAY, "And the world's top frequent-flier awards for 2017 go to ...," 28 Apr. 2017
Davies spoke with Esquire.com about being awarded knighthood, predicting a rise in the political right, and working on his latest album about his affection for America.

— jeff slate, Esquire, "The Kinks' Ray Davies Reveals Why He's So Enamored With America," 21 Apr. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'knighthood.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of knighthood

13th century

KNIGHTHOOD Defined for English Language Learners

knighthood

noun

Definition of knighthood for English Language Learners

: the rank or title of a knight

KNIGHTHOOD Defined for Kids

knighthood

noun knight·hood \ ˈnīt-ˌhu̇d \

Definition of knighthood for Students

:the rank, dignity, or profession of a knight

Learn More about knighthood

See words that rhyme with knighthood Spanish Central: Translation of knighthood Nglish: Translation of knighthood for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about knighthood

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knighthood

Definition of knighthood

Examples of knighthood in a Sentence

Recent Examples of knighthood from the Web

First Known Use of knighthood

KNIGHTHOOD Defined for English Language Learners

knighthood

Definition of knighthood for English Language Learners

KNIGHTHOOD Defined for Kids

knighthood

Definition of knighthood for Students

Learn More about knighthood

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knighthood

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KNIGHTHOOD Defined for English Language Learners

knighthood

Definition of knighthood for English Language Learners

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knighthood

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