Medieval History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Medieval History

Pimbley's Dictionary of Heraldry: K

Heraldic Terms from King-of-Arms to Knight Errant

By Melissa Snell, About.com

King-of-Arms - An officer who has jurisdiction over armory, etc. There are three in England - Garter, the principal; Clarenceaux, whose jurisdiction extends south of the Trent; and Norry, who officiates north of that river. The King-of-Arms for Scotland is called Lyon; and for Ireland, Ulster. The office of King-of-Arms is one of great antiquity.

Kintyr - One of the pursuivants of the Lord Lyon's Court, Scotland.

Knight - One who holds the dignity of knighthood, conferred by the sovereign, entitling the holder to the title of Sir prefixed to his name. Unlike a baronet, however, the dignity is not hereditary. The wife of a knight is legally entitled to the designation of Dame, but by common consent is addressed as Lady.

Formerly a candidate for knighthood had to go through certain ceremonies or religious rites, preparing himself by fasting and prayer and by watching his arms alone all night in a chapel.

Knight Bachelor - The lowest order of knighthood; also the oldest.

Knight Banneret - A knightly order next below the Garter. [See BANNERET.]

Knight Errant - A knight who wandered about the country in quest of adventures for the purpose of displaying his prowess.



Find another term:

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | Y



Pimbley's Dictionary of Heraldry is in the public domain. Please see the main page of this resource for more information.

Explore Medieval History

About.com Special Features

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

The Business School Lowdown

Everything from choosing a school and applying, to employment after graduation. More >

Medieval History

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Medieval History
  4. Castles, Knights & Armor
  5. Heraldry
  6. Pimbley's Dictionary
  7. Heraldic Terms Beginning with the Letter K - Pimbley

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.