Surname Knowles - Meaning and Origin

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U. Knowles

Knowles: What does the surname Knowles mean?

The surname Knowles is of English origin, primarily associated with Northern England and the Midlands. Its roots date back to the Middle Ages, derived from the topographical term "Knoll." This term described one who lived on, or near a hill top or a patch of hilly country. Thus, it suggested someone residing near a hill or hilltop. Topographical surnames were some of the earliest created since both natural and man-made features in a landscape provided easily recognizable distinguishing names. The name has various spellings like Knollys, Knolles, Knolle, Knowlys among others. Notable people bearing the surname include singer Beyoncé Knowles and her sister Solange Knowles. This name reflects the cultural heritage and ancient history of the early tribes of Briton.

Knowles: Where does the name Knowles come from?

The surname Knowles is of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English term "knolle" which means "hilltop" and was likely used initially to refer to someone who lived on or near a hilltop. This type of surname is known as a topographic surname, a type of hereditary surname that was given to a person who resided near a physical feature such as a hill, stream, church, or type of tree.

The surname Knowles became more common due to changes in spelling over centuries and migration. Today, it is found more frequently in English speaking countries like the United States, England, Canada, and Australia. The surname gained worldwide recognition due to Beyoncé Knowles, an internationally renowned American singer and actress.

Variations of the surname Knowles

The surname Knowles has various spellings and variants. These include Knowls, Noles, Noell, Knolls, Nolls, Knolles, Knolly, Knowlers, Noaler and Knolles among others.

The surname is often said to be of English origin, derived from the Old English ‘cnoll’ or Middle English ‘knol’ both meaning ‘hilltop’ or ‘summit’. This suggests it was often given as a topographic name for someone who lived at the top of a hill or high land. Therefore, other surnames that are originated from the same semantics such as Hill, Dune or Peak could possibly be considered loosely related.

It is also worth mentioning that variations might occur based on regional dialects and pronunciation. Tracking exact surnames of the same origin could be complex due to historical population movements, variations in language and spelling, and the passage of oral tradition.

Given its English origin, this surname is not merely confined to England but is also found in countries where English is spoken, such as the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, where it can also be found in various spellings due to linguistic adaptations.

Famous people with the name Knowles

• Beyoncé Knowles: an internationally acclaimed singer, actress, songwriter, and record producer.
• Solange Knowles: an American singer, songwriter, actress, and activist.
• Matthew Knowles: an American talent manager and businessman, and the father of singers Beyoncé and Solange Knowles.
• Tina Knowles: an American fashion designer and mother of singers Beyoncé and Solange Knowles.
• Richard Knowles: an American mayor of the city of Birmingham, Alabama from 1979 to 1999.
• Prince Beausoleil Knowles: a Prince of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, notable for his involvement in Canadian politics.
• Russell Knowles: a British Conservative politician, and Member of Parliament for Bradford North from 1979 to 1997.
• Mark Knowles: a Bahamian professional tennis player.
• Steve Knowles: an English actor perhaps best known for his television roles in "Grange Hill", "Emmerdale" and "Bad Girls".
• Mark Knowles Jr.: an American basketball coach and former player.

Other surnames

KnowlanKnowlandKnowldenKnowlton