Summary

The surname Knowles is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the Old Norse name Knutr, meaning 'knot'. It was a common surname among Norse Vikings and eventually spread to other parts of Europe. Over time, the surname Knowles became associated with families involved in agricultural work and land management. Today, individuals with the surname Knowles can be found in various countries around the world.
There are
28460
Knowless in the USA
Knowles is the
1239th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Knowles

BeyoncéKnowles

Beyoncé Knowles is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She rose to fame as the lead singer of the R&B girl group Destiny's Child and has since become a highly successful solo artist.

SolangeKnowles

Solange Knowles is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She is the younger sister of Beyoncé Knowles and has released several critically acclaimed albums.

MatthewKnowles

Mathew Knowles is an American record executive and talent manager. He is best known for managing the career of his daughter Beyoncé Knowles.

TinaKnowles

Tina Knowles is an American businesswoman and fashion designer. She is the mother of Beyoncé Knowles and Solange Knowles and has her own clothing line.

RichardKnowles

Richard Knowles is an English footballer who played as a forward for various teams in the 1960s and 1970s.

NigelKnowles

Nigel Knowles is a British lawyer and businessman. He co-founded the international law firm DLA Piper and served as its Global Co-Chairman until 2016.

DavidKnowles

David Knowles was an English historian and Benedictine monk. He authored several influential works on medieval religious history.

AnthonyKnowles

Anthony Knowles is a former American football player and coach. He played in the National Football League (NFL) and later coached at various colleges.

BrianKnowles

Brian Knowles is a former Canadian ice hockey player. He played in the National Hockey League (NHL) and World Hockey Association (WHA) during the 1970s.

JudithKnowles

Judith Knowles is an Australian actress who has appeared in various films, television shows, and stage productions.

Knowles Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Knowles' is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English word 'knolle' or 'cnoll,' meaning 'hill' or 'knoll.' It likely originated as a topographic surname for someone who lived near a hillock or small hill.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Knowles' is most common in the United Kingdom, particularly in England. It is also found in smaller concentrations in the United States, Canada, and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Knowles' include 'Knolls' and 'Knolles.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Knowles' has been carried by individuals who have migrated from the United Kingdom to other English-speaking countries, particularly during periods of colonization and emigration.