Knox

Hill or rounded hill, through a Scottish surname.

Knox is a masculine name used in English, borrowed from a Scottish surname with a hill meaning. Places called Knock lie behind this surname tradition. Its history brings together Gaelic cnoc, “hill”, and Old English cnocc, “round-topped hill”; the two routes are not always distinguishable. The landscape connection gives the name a quieter image beneath its sharp written outline. In English, Knox is a single syllable beginning with n: the initial k is silent. The final x supplies the crisp ks sound that makes the ending feel decisive. With no trailing syllable to soften it, Knox can seem bold, compact and modern. It may appeal especially to someone who likes a short name with a clear stopping point rather than a long, flowing finish.

Etymology: From the Scottish surname Knox, associated with places named Knock. Gaelic cnoc “hill” and Old English cnocc “round-topped hill” overlap in the surname’s history.