knighthood

noun

knight·​hood ˈnīt-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce knighthood (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
David's well-wishes for his friend come just days after the athlete was named for knighthood by Prince William's father, King Charles, on June 13. Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 21 June 2025 According to the Guardian, he was reportedly first nominated for a knighthood in 2011. Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2025 Roger Daltrey, David Beckham, and Gary Oldman were among those who received knighthood Saturday for this year’s King’s Birthday Honors list. Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 14 June 2025 The former England captain, who was previously awarded an OBE back in 2003, is set to receive a knighthood as part of the King’s Birthday Honors list, in recognition of his contributions to soccer and British society. Emily Chan, Vogue, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for knighthood

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of knighthood was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Knighthood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knighthood. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

knighthood

noun
knight·​hood ˈnīt-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce knighthood (audio)
1
: the rank, dignity, or profession of a knight
2
: the qualities that a knight should have
3
: knights as a class or body
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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