Cnihton

Cnihton is a term originating from Old English, meaning "knight" or "young man." It was used during the Anglo-Saxon period in England and refers to a warrior class that existed before the Norman Conquest. These warriors were often associated with a lord and provided military service in exchange for land or other patronage. The concept of a cniht evolved over time, eventually becoming the medieval knight.

The social standing of a cniht could vary. Some were drawn from the aristocracy, while others were more common warriors who gained status through their martial prowess. They were expected to be skilled in combat, loyal to their lord, and to uphold certain codes of conduct, though these were not as formalized as the later chivalric code. Their equipment typically included a spear, sword, and shield, and they often fought on horseback, foreshadowing the cavalry's importance in later centuries.

The term "cnihton" itself highlights the transition in military and social structures. It represents a period where warrior elites were developing distinct identities and roles within society. The legacy of the cnihton can be seen in the enduring image of the knight in literature and history, a figure of martial skill and evolving social ideals.