Surname Knechts - Meaning and Origin
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Knechts: What does the surname Knechts mean?
The last name Knechts is an occupational name, derived from the German word 'Knecht', which translates to 'servant' or 'farmhand'. It is believed to have been created in the 13th century as a way to distinguish those of lower social classes and employed, manual labourers from those of a higher economic and social status. The family name Knechts likely originated in regions of Central, Northern, and Western Europe, and may have spread to other parts of Europe and to America during centuries of mass migrations.
The Knechts family is likely closely related to the Dutch, German and Swedish names "Knecht" and "Knigge", which have similar meanings of laborer or farmhand. The Knechts have a long and proud tradition – for centuries they have been known as loyal and hard-working people, renowned for their dedication and determination.
The Knechts today have a wide variety of professions. While many still work in the agricultural industry as farmers, others have moved on to become professionals in many different fields. Regardless of their profession, Knechts are known for their intelligence, diligence, and resilience.
The Knecht name bears a heritage of hard-working and dedicated people who always strive for excellence. While those with this last name today may have a variety of occupations, the Knechts of the past maintained a tradition of excellence, determination, and loyalty. This is one of the oldest family names in existence, and is thus one that carries with it an immense amount of history and pride.
Order DNA origin analysisKnechts: Where does the name Knechts come from?
The last name Knechts is most commonly found in Germany today, although it appears in smaller numbers all over the world. The original spelling of Knechts appears to have been Knecht, which is a German word meaning ‘servant’ and was often given to those born into a lower socio-economic strata of society.
In Germany, the name is often associated with areas of south-west Germany, especially the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. This coincides with a period of time where there was a lot of migration from this area in the early 19th century. According to records, the earliest Knechts migrated nearly 500 years ago, in the 1500s. It is believed the name was borne by a farmer belonging to one of the sons of Emperor Louis XIV.
Across the world, most people with the last name Knechts still trace their lineage back to Germany, with the majority of the population still residing in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. The name is also common among German American communities, with many descendants born in the United States. Since the early 20th century, the name has also spread to other European countries such as Denmark, Belgium and Switzerland, as well as countries in South America, particularly Brazil.
In countries such as the United States, the Knechts may have changed their surnames slightly, but overall they have remained geographically concentrated.
Variations of the surname Knechts
The surname Knechts is believed to have its roots in Germany, probably derived from the Middle High German word “knecht”, which means “servant”. This surname has evolved in terms of spelling over the years and is also known by various alternative spellings and variants, including Neght, Necht, Knect, Knechte, and Knecth.
Since the Knecht family is rather widespread all over Europe, several variations in the spelling have developed over the years as the Knechts migrated from Germany to other countries. In many countries, including the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, the surname is spelled as Knaus, Kneuss, and Knous. In Switzerland and Austria, the same surname is found spelled as Knetsch, Knechtl, and Knötsch.
In addition, there are also many different surnames that are believed to be derived from the original surname of Knechts. These surname variations include Knects, Knebts, Kneits, Knezd, Knezvoy, Knyts, and Kochs.
Overall, the surname Knechts remains a popular and widespread surname across Europe despite its various spellings, form changes and derivative surnames. This is probably due to its original meaning, which is “servant”, and suggests a sense of loyalty across generations.
Famous people with the name Knechts
- Nico Knecht: German actor
- Gustave Knecht: French painter
- Sal Knechts: American chess champion
- Jerry Knechts: American blues singer
- Hans Knechts: Swiss footballer
- Robert Knechts: United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel
- Peter Knechts: Dutch conservationist
- Hugo Knechts: Belgian World War II veteran
- Hermann Knechts: German music composer
- Nicole Knechts: Dutch architect