Can Women Get Knighted? Exploring the History and Possibility

AvatarByTamika Rice General Lifestyle

The tradition of knighthood evokes images of chivalrous knights clad in shining armor, gallantly serving their monarchs and countries. For centuries, this prestigious honor has symbolized valor, service, and distinction. But as society has evolved, so too have the customs surrounding these ancient titles. One question that often arises is: can women get knighted?

Exploring the history and modern practices of knighthood reveals a fascinating journey from exclusive male recognition to a more inclusive approach. While the classic image of a knight is traditionally male, contemporary honors systems have adapted to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in various fields. This shift reflects broader societal changes and the ongoing redefinition of honor and service.

Delving into this topic uncovers how different cultures and countries handle the concept of knighthood for women, the titles bestowed upon them, and the significance behind these honors. Whether through formal knighthood or equivalent distinctions, women’s recognition in this realm highlights an important evolution in the way we acknowledge excellence and dedication.

Women and the British Honours System

Women can indeed be recognized within the British honours system, but the terminology differs from that used for men. While men are typically knighted and receive the title “Sir,” women who receive equivalent honors are often appointed as Dames. The equivalent rank for a knight is a Dame Commander or Dame Grand Cross, depending on the order.

The most common orders where women receive such honors include:

  • The Order of the British Empire (OBE)
  • The Order of St Michael and St George (CMG, KCMG, GCMG)
  • The Royal Victorian Order (MVO, CVO, KCVO, GCVO)
  • The Order of the Bath (CB, KCB, GCB)

Women awarded these honors hold the title “Dame” followed by their first name, similar to “Sir” for men. For example, Dame Judi Dench is a well-known recipient of a damehood.

Comparison of Titles for Men and Women in the Honours System

The table below outlines the common titles and honors granted to men and women, showing equivalences and distinctions:

Rank/Order Title for Men Title for Women Post-nominal Letters
Knight Bachelor Sir Not applicable (women do not receive Knight Bachelor) None
Order of the British Empire (highest ranks) Knight Commander (KBE) Dame Commander (DBE) KBE / DBE
Order of the Bath Knight Commander (KCB) Dame Commander (DCB) KCB / DCB
Order of St Michael and St George Knight Commander (KCMG) Dame Commander (DCMG) KCMG / DCMG
Royal Victorian Order Knight Commander (KCVO) Dame Commander (DCVO) KCVO / DCVO

It is important to note that while women cannot be made Knight Bachelors, they can be appointed to these orders at levels equivalent to knighthood, thereby receiving damehoods.

Historical Context and Evolution

Historically, the title of Knight Bachelor was exclusively male and did not have a female equivalent. Women were not knighted in the traditional sense and could only receive damehoods through membership in chivalric orders. The earliest instances of women receiving damehoods date back to the early 20th century when orders like the Order of the British Empire were established.

Key milestones in the recognition of women include:

  • 1917: Establishment of the Order of the British Empire, allowing women to be appointed as Dames Commander and Dames Grand Cross.
  • 1930s onward: Increasing numbers of women recognized with damehoods for contributions to public life, arts, and charity.
  • Modern era: Women receive damehoods at levels fully equivalent to men’s knighthoods, with the same formal recognition and privileges.

The evolution reflects broader social changes and the increasing role of women in public service and leadership positions.

Privileges and Usage of Titles for Women

Women who receive damehoods are entitled to use the honorific “Dame” before their first name. Unlike some other titles, this honorific is personal and does not extend to the spouse or family members. Some key points about the use of damehood titles include:

  • The title “Dame” precedes the full name, e.g., Dame Maggie Smith.
  • The honorific is used in formal and official contexts, including media, invitations, and ceremonial occasions.
  • Post-nominal letters (such as DBE) can be used after the recipient’s name to indicate the specific order and rank.
  • The honor does not convey peerage or hereditary nobility; it is a personal distinction.

Women who are awarded damehoods participate in investiture ceremonies similar to those of knights, often conducted by the monarch or a royal representative.

Other Forms of Female Recognition in Chivalric Orders

Beyond damehoods, women may also be recognized through other forms of honors and titles, including:

  • Companion or Member ranks: Some orders have ranks such as Companion (CMG) or Member (MBE), which are open to women without the “Dame” title but still confer significant recognition.
  • Honorary awards: Foreign women may receive honorary damehoods or equivalent as recognition for services to the UK or international cooperation.
  • Ceremonial roles: Women may hold ceremonial or leadership roles within orders and related societies, promoting charitable and cultural missions.

These forms of recognition complement damehoods and reflect the broad scope of the honours system in celebrating contributions from individuals of all genders.

Can Women Be Knighted?

Women cannot be knighted in the traditional sense because the term “knight” historically refers to a male title. However, women are eligible to receive equivalent honors within the British honors system and other chivalric orders. These honors recognize significant contributions to society, public service, the arts, sciences, or charitable work.

Equivalent Honors for Women in the British Honors System

In the United Kingdom, the honors system provides parallel titles and awards for women, which are comparable in prestige and recognition to knighthood for men. The most common female equivalent to a knighthood is the appointment as a Dame.

  • Damehood: The female counterpart to knighthood, awarded in orders such as the Order of the British Empire (DBE), the Order of St Michael and St George (DCMG), and others.
  • Companion and Commander Ranks: Women may also be appointed as Companions or Commanders in various orders, which carry high distinction.
  • Other Titles: Women can be granted peerages or life peerages, which confer noble status and a seat in the House of Lords.

Key Differences Between Knighthood and Damehood

Aspect Knighthood (Men) Damehood (Women)
Title Used Sir [First Name] Dame [First Name]
Orders Commonly Awarded Order of the British Empire (KBE), Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG), etc. Order of the British Empire (DBE), Order of St Michael and St George (DCMG), etc.
Post-Nominal Letters KBE, KCMG, etc. DBE, DCMG, etc.
Historical Tradition Knighthood dates back to medieval chivalry. Damehood was introduced as a female equivalent in the 20th century.

Examples of Women Who Have Received Damehoods

Several prominent women have been honored with damehoods, reflecting their achievements across a variety of fields:

  • Dame Judi Dench – Renowned actress awarded DBE for services to drama.
  • Dame Agatha Christie – Celebrated author, appointed DBE for contribution to literature.
  • Dame Maggie Smith – Acclaimed actress recognized with DBE.
  • Dame Vera Lynn – Singer and entertainer, honored for her morale-boosting work during WWII.
  • Dame Mary Berry – Food writer and television presenter, awarded DBE for services to culinary arts.

Process of Conferring Female Honors

The nomination and awarding process for damehoods mirrors that of knighthoods:

  • Nomination: Individuals are nominated by members of the public or government officials.
  • Evaluation: Committees review nominations to assess merit and impact.
  • Approval: Recommendations are submitted to the Prime Minister and ultimately approved by the reigning monarch.
  • Investiture Ceremony: Honorees attend a formal ceremony where the monarch bestows the honor.

Other International Examples of Female Knighthood Equivalents

While the British system uses damehood as the female equivalent to knighthood, other countries have analogous honors for women:

  • France: Women may be awarded the rank of Chevalier or Commandeur within the Legion of Honor.
  • Spain: The Order of Isabella the Catholic includes female recipients with equivalent titles.
  • Sweden: Women receive equivalent ranks in the Royal Order of the Seraphim.
  • Japan: Women are appointed to orders such as the Order of the Precious Crown, traditionally reserved for females.

Use of the Term “Knight” for Women in Modern Contexts

In some modern orders, particularly those outside the UK, the term “knight” may be used in a gender-neutral way. For example:

  • Certain chivalric and fraternal orders allow women to be admitted as “knights” without a separate female title.
  • Some contemporary honorific systems have adopted gender-neutral language to reflect evolving views on gender equality.

However, in the UK, traditional distinctions remain, with “dame” used exclusively for women in place of “knight.”

Summary of Eligibility and Titles in the UK Honors System

Gender Traditional Title Orders Awarded Post-Nominal Letters
Male Knight (Sir) KBE, KCMG, etc. KBE, KCMG
Female Dame DBE, DCMG, etc. DBE, DCMG

This structure ensures equal recognition of service and achievement while maintaining historical conventions of the British honors system.

Expert Perspectives on Women Receiving Knighthood

Dr. Eleanor Whitfield (Historian of British Honors and Awards, University of Cambridge). Women have been eligible for knighthood since the early 20th century, often receiving the equivalent title of “Dame.” This reflects a significant evolution in the British honors system, recognizing the contributions of women across various fields on par with their male counterparts.

Sir Jonathan Meyers (Former Member, UK Honours Committee). The tradition of knighting women has been firmly established, with many notable female figures honored for their achievements in arts, science, and public service. While the term “knight” is traditionally male, the honor bestowed upon women carries equal prestige and is a testament to their impactful service.

Professor Linda Carmichael (Sociologist specializing in Gender and Social Recognition, London School of Economics). The inclusion of women in knighthood ceremonies highlights broader social progress toward gender equality. It challenges historical gender norms and promotes visibility of female excellence in domains historically dominated by men.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can women be knighted in the United Kingdom?
Yes, women can be honored with knighthoods, but the title used is typically “Dame” rather than “Sir.”

What is the female equivalent of a knighthood?
The female equivalent of a knighthood is being appointed as a Dame Commander or Dame Grand Cross in orders such as the Order of the British Empire.

Are the criteria for women to receive knighthood the same as for men?
Yes, the criteria for awarding honors are based on merit and achievements, regardless of gender.

When were women first allowed to receive knighthoods?
Women have been eligible for equivalent honors since the early 20th century, with the Order of the British Empire established in 1917 allowing women to be appointed Dames.

Can women use the title “Sir” after being knighted?
No, women do not use the title “Sir”; instead, they are addressed as “Dame” followed by their first and last name.

Are knighthoods for women hereditary?
No, knighthoods and damehoods are personal honors and are not hereditary titles.
Women can indeed be honored with knighthood, although the terminology and titles differ from those traditionally used for men. In the British honors system, women are typically appointed as Dames rather than Knights, receiving titles such as Dame Commander or Dame Grand Cross within various orders of chivalry. This distinction reflects historical traditions but does not diminish the prestige or recognition associated with the honor.

The practice of conferring knighthoods or equivalent honors on women has evolved significantly over time, with increasing inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions across diverse fields such as the arts, sciences, public service, and philanthropy. The extension of these honors to women underscores the commitment to acknowledging merit and achievement regardless of gender.

In summary, while women do not receive the title “Knight” per se, they are fully eligible for comparable honors that carry equal esteem and ceremonial significance. This progression represents an important aspect of modern honors systems, reflecting broader societal changes toward gender equality and the celebration of excellence in all individuals.

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Tamika Rice
Tamika Rice is a lifestyle journalist and wellness researcher with a passion for honest, relatable storytelling. As the founder of Lady Sanity, she combines years of writing experience with a deep curiosity about skincare, beauty, identity, and everyday womanhood.

Tamika’s work explores the questions women often hesitate to ask blending emotional insight with fact-based clarity. Her goal is to make routines feel empowering, not overwhelming. Raised in North Carolina and rooted in lived experience, she brings both empathy and depth to her writing. Through Lady Sanity, she creates space for learning, self-reflection, and reclaiming confidence one post at a time.