Knotts family crest and coat of arms

The family name Knotts is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "cnotta" meaning "knot". It is likely an occupational surname for someone who worked with ropes or cords, or could be a topographic name for someone who lived near a knotted tree.

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.

The family name Knotts exhibits a fascinating array of variations stemming from linguistic adaptations and regional influences across different centuries. In the 12th century in England, the name began to take on forms such as Knott, evolving due to phonetic spelling variations common during the Medieval period; this variation was influenced by the gradual shift in pronunciation and the lack of standardized spelling. By the 15th century, as migrations and social mobility increased, the name emerged in a slightly altered format in Scotland as Nott, reflecting the Celtic influence on the English language, where the sounds and syllables were adapted to fit local dialects. Moving into the 18th century, the name Knotts became more common in parts of North America, where it was often transformed into variations such as Notts or Nots, due to the merging of English settlers with various cultural groups that also adapted the name for ease of pronunciation in another language. Additionally, as a result of the German migration to America, there are instances where Knotts became Knottz in the 19th century, showcasing the influence of German phonetics and the fun-loving spirit of names being funneled through different cultural experiences. In contemporary contexts, one might encounter forms like Knottsberg or Knotzmann in Eastern European countries, using suffixes characteristic of Slavic and German languages, presenting a reflection of the societal structures and naming traditions particular to those regions. Overall, the variations of the Knotts surname reveal an intricate tapestry woven through centuries of linguistic evolution, migration, and cultural exchange, each version adding a layer of richness to the understanding of this family name.

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources:

• Get your official family crest here.
• Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
• See an introduction at wikipedia.com