Knighton family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Knighton family crest symbols

Fleur-de-lis

The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Knighton coat of arms colors

Silver

The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Knighton name meaning and origin

The family name Knighton is of European origin and is derived from the Old English word "cnht," meaning "knight," and "tun," meaning "settlement." Therefore, the surname Knighton likely signifies a settlement or village where knights resided or were associated with. In a broader sense, the name Knighton can be interpreted as "the settlement or village of knights."

History of family crests like the Knighton coat of arms

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

Knighton name variations and their meaning

Knighton is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions. One common variation is "Knyghton," which reflects an older spelling style. Another variation is "Knitton," which may have originated from a regional dialect or accent. Additionally, "Knighton" is another variant that has been observed in certain family lineages. These variations highlight the fluidity and adaptability of surnames over time.

The diverse spellings of Knighton can be attributed to factors such as migration, regional accents, and changes in language over the centuries. Families with the Knighton surname may have adopted different spellings based on their location or personal preference. This variation in spelling can make genealogical research challenging, as individuals with the same family name may be recorded differently in historical records.

Despite the variations, individuals with the Knighton surname share a common heritage and are part of a larger family network. Exploring the different spellings and variations of Knighton can provide valuable insights into the history and migration patterns of these families.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: