knight bachelor

noun

, plural knights bachelors, knight bachelors.

1. bachelor ( def 3 ).

knight bachelor

noun

1. a person who has been knighted but who does not belong to any of the orders of knights
2. another name for a bachelor

Word History and Origins

Origin of knight bachelor¹

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

The esteemed Briton, also an astrophysicist and animal welfare advocate, received the title of knight bachelor “for services to Music and to Charity,” according to the Gazette — the official publication of the British royal family.

From Los Angeles Times

May, who is also an animal welfare campaigner, was appointed a knight bachelor for his services to music and charity.

From Seattle Times

The queen drew closer to present Mr. Moore with the insignia of knight bachelor, and they chatted for a few minutes.

From New York Times

He was made a knight bachelor the same year, and in 1999 he was named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the non-performer category.

From Los Angeles Times

The esquire ranked immediately below the knight bachelor, and his office was regarded as the apprentice stage of knighthood.

From Project Gutenberg