KNIGHTLY
Knightly
Knightly is a British surname with origins dating back to the medieval period. The name is derived from the English word "knight," and is believed to have originally been an occupational surname for someone who worked as a knight or a servant in a knight's household.
History
The surname Knightly is found primarily in England, particularly in regions where the tradition of knighthood was prevalent. The surname's association with the knightly class suggests that early bearers of the name may have had connections to the nobility or served in a military capacity.
Notable Bearers
- Sir Richard Knightly: A prominent figure in English history, known for his efforts in supporting the monarchy during the English Civil War.
- Lady Eleanor Knightly: A fictional character in literature known for her courage and chivalry, often depicted as a fierce warrior in fantasy novels.
Variants
Variants of the surname Knightly include Knightley, Knightleigh, and Knightlye. These variations may have developed over time as the name spread to different regions and underwent phonetic changes.
Modern Usage
Today, the surname Knightly is relatively uncommon but is still found in various parts of the United Kingdom and among the British diaspora worldwide. Some modern bearers of the name may trace their ancestry back to historical figures associated with knighthood or may simply carry the name as a link to their family's heritage and traditions.
There are approximately 138 people named Knightly in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Knightly.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Anthony
- Carl
- Christian
- James
- John
- Kevin
- Luke
- Nicholas
- Robert
- William
Female
- Annie
- Eve
- Georgia
- Geraldine
- Irene
- Karen
- Katherine
- Linda
- Louise
- Mary
- Sally
- Samantha
- Sylvia