Knighting: meaning, definitions and examples

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knighting

 

[ ˈnaɪtɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medieval ceremony

The act of ceremonially appointing someone as a knight, typically involving a sword touching each shoulder.

Synonyms

dubbing, investiture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
knighting

Same as the first entry for 'knighting', appropriate for formal ceremonies where knighthood is conferred.

  • During the medieval ceremony, the queen conducted the knighting of Sir Lancelot.
  • The actor received a knighting from the king for his contributions to the arts.
dubbing

Historically used similarly to 'knighting' but might also imply the act of giving a specific title or name, not exclusively related to knighthood. Appropriate in both historical and modern, less formal contexts.

  • He was dubbing as the best chef in the village.
  • The council held a dubbing ceremony to honor the new knights.
investiture

Refers more broadly to the formal process of granting authority or office, not limited to knighthood. This can include any ceremonial installation to a position of power or honor.

  • The new mayor's investiture ceremony will take place next week.
  • His investiture as the chancellor was a grand celebration.

Examples of usage

  • The queen performed the knighting ceremony on the brave soldier.
  • After the knighting, he became Sir John.
Context #2 | Noun

modern use

Giving someone an honorary title or recognition, often in a formal or official setting.

Synonyms

bestowing, honoring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
knighting

Duplicate entry. This term is specifically used in the context of granting someone a knighthood. It is a formal ceremony where an individual is formally made a knight by a monarch or a high-ranking official.

  • The queen held a knighting ceremony for the brave soldier.
  • He was knighted for his services to the arts.
honoring

Use this term when paying tribute or showing respect to someone, usually in public or formal settings. It can refer to a range of recognitions, not just giving a physical award or title.

  • The city is honoring the firefighter for his bravery.
  • We are honoring our veterans with a special parade.
bestowing

This word is used in formal and ceremonial contexts to describe giving an honor, award, or gift to someone. It doesn't necessarily refer to knighthood and can be used in various situations.

  • The university was bestowing honorary degrees to distinguished alumni.
  • They bestowed the community service award upon her for her years of dedication.

Examples of usage

  • The CEO surprised him with a knighting for his dedication to the company.
  • The knighting ceremony was attended by many dignitaries.

Translations

Translations of the word "knighting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sagração

🇮🇳 शूरवीर बनाना

🇩🇪 Ritterschlag

🇮🇩 penganugerahan gelar ksatria

🇺🇦 посвячення в лицарі

🇵🇱 pasowanie na rycerza

🇯🇵 叙任

🇫🇷 adoubement

🇪🇸 investidura

🇹🇷 şövalyelik töreni

🇰🇷 기사 작위 수여

🇸🇦 تتويج باللقب الفروسية

🇨🇿 pasování na rytíře

🇸🇰 pasovanie za rytiera

🇨🇳 授予爵位

🇸🇮 podelitev viteškega naslova

🇮🇸 riddaraskapur

🇰🇿 рыцарь ету

🇬🇪 რაინდად კურთხევა

🇦🇿 cəngiz təltifi

🇲🇽 investidura

Etymology

The term 'knighting' originates from the Old English word 'cnithood', which referred to the period or rank of a knight. The act of knighting has been a part of various cultures throughout history, symbolizing honor, bravery, and chivalry. In medieval times, knighting ceremonies were prestigious events that marked the transition of a squire into a knight, often involving rituals and oaths of loyalty. Today, knighting is still practiced in some countries as a way to honor individuals for their service or achievements.

See also: knight.