What does the surname McKnight mean?

The surname McKnight means "Son of the knight or descendant of a knight.". It is of Scottish/English origin.

How common is the McKnight surname?

There are approximately 8,000 people with the surname McKnight in the United States.

Are there McKnight soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 904 soldiers with the McKnight surname appear in Civil War records.

McKnight

Occupational

Meaning

Son of the knight or descendant of a knight.

Etymology

Derived from the occupational term 'knight' combined with the Scottish patronymic prefix Mc-. The surname likely originated as a descriptor for the son of a man who held the rank or title of knight.

About the McKnight Surname

A surname combining occupational and patronymic elements, indicating descent from someone of knightly status. The name is relatively uncommon and may have originated from multiple independent sources.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 8,000 bearers in the United States #1,263 most common surname

Rare Common

Scotland, United States, and Northern Ireland.

McKnight Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the McKnight Surname

R. McKnight

Hon.

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish/English
Classification: Occupational
Earliest Record: 15th century
Estimated Bearers: 8,000

War Records

904 soldiers with the McKnight surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →