Surname Knockton - Meaning and Origin
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Knockton: What does the surname Knockton mean?
The last name Knockton is thought to have originated from the Norse word ‘knokkton’, meaning ‘knock’ or ‘knocking’. This suggests that the word may have been given to someone who worked or had some connection with a forge, such as a blacksmith, since they would have been making loud, hammering noises. Alternatively, it could refer to someone that was associated with a tower, since there were usually heavy doors that made a loud ‘knocking’ sound when opened or closed. It is also possible that the name was given to someone who held a position in the Royal Household, usually a keeper or guard, because they were responsible for announcing their presence by knocking on doors.
The name Knockton later spread beyond the Norse regions and was adopted in England where it became popular during medieval times. Here, it was typically used by families who lived near a church or a fortified tower, as such a structure would have created loud knocking noises when approaching. The name eventually spread across Europe and to America, where it is still found today.
Regardless of its origins, the last name Knockton remains a reminder of a long-held tradition, one that is still associated with strength, protection, and power.
Order DNA origin analysisKnockton: Where does the name Knockton come from?
Knockton is a surname originating from Britain, and has become common in several countries. In England, Wales, and the U.S., there are hundreds of families with the last name Knockton. According to the 2020 census data, the most popular areas with the surname are London, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Manchester in the United Kingdom, followed by New York City, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C. in the United States.
In Australia, the surname is mainly concentrated around the Sydney and Brisbane areas, with almost 400 Knocktons living in the country. Canada has approximately 200 Knocktons mainly around the Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver areas. In Europe the Knocktons can be found mainly in Ireland and Scotland.
In terms of the genetic history, Knockton is a relatively young surname which was formed by the migration of people from Britain. The Knocktons have a common history which dates back to the 14th century, with the first recorded Knockton appearing in the British records.
This surname is now part of the Irish diaspora and the ancestral homeland of the Knocktons is mainly Britain. Since the 19th century, many Knockton families have migrated to many different countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States. As such, the population of the surname is spread across several different parts of the world today.
Variations of the surname Knockton
The surname Knockton is of English origin, and is a variant of the name Knapton. Other variants of the surname include Knapton, Knutten, Knotten and Knotton.
Spelling variations of the surname can include Knapton, Knickton, Knockton, Knotten, Knutten and Knutton.
Surnames that are derived from the same origin are Knap, Knaplock, Knauff, Knauf, Knopp, Knowles, Knox and Knoll. Other surnames that are related to Knockton include Knapton, Knotts, Knottingham and Knollys.
The surname Knockton is most common in England, where it can be found in various counties such as Oxfordshire, Wessex, Somerset, Kent and Wiltshire. It is also present in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Knapton is a rare surname that is derived from the name Knut, which was an Old English name popular in the Middle Ages. The word knut is of Norse origin, and means “bold”, or “strong”.
In areas where the surname is commonly found, such as England, some interesting variations have developed. For example, in some areas of Oxfordshire, the surname has become “Knotton”, while in Somerset it has become “Knotten”.
The surname Knockton has also been associated with various noble families, including the Knolls of Oxfordshire and the Knots of Yorkshire.
In conclusion, the surname Knockton is an English variant of the name Knapton, and has many spelling variations and related surnames. It is mostly associated with England, but can be found in other countries as well. It has also been associated with various noble families in the past.
Famous people with the name Knockton
- David Knutton: British actor known for his roles in 'Doctor Who' and 'Sherlock'.
- Rose Knutton: English actress who starred in 'The Merchant of Venice' on the West End.
- Paolo Knutton: Italian composer and conductor.
- Emily Knutton: British Children's author.
- Robert Knutton: British mathematician and author.
- Emma Knutton: American author and politician.
- Steven Knutton: Australian actor and drama teacher.
- Lucas Knutton: French chef, restaurateur and television presenter.
- Craig Knutton: British artist and sculptor.
- John Knutton: American baseball player for the Oakland A's.