Knighthood

/ˈnaɪt.hʊd/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The rank or title of knight; the qualities or conduct befitting a knight.
He was honored with knighthood for his bravery on the battlefield.
The state of being a knight; the system of chivalry and codes of conduct associated with knighthood.
The tales of old recount the virtues of knighthood and the roles knights played in society.
A collective term for knights as a social class or order.
The knighthood of England played a significant role in the medieval monarchy.

Etymology

From Old English 'cniht' meaning 'young man' or 'servant' + 'hood' signifying a state or condition.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Knight in shining armor
A hero who comes to the rescue in a time of need.
To be knighted
To receive the honor of knighthood.
Chivalric code
The medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code.

Related Words

knight
A man who served his sovereign or lord as a mounted soldier in armor.
chivalry
The medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code.
order
A formal association of individuals with a shared purpose or common interest, often used in the context of knighthood.

Slang Meanings