D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Knighthood

/nīt'-ho͝odˌ/ · Knight·hood · IPA /nˈaɪthˌʊd/
01 n. The character, dignity, or condition of a knight, or of knights as a class; hence, chivalry.
  1. 1.
    The character, dignity, or condition of a knight, or of knights as a class; hence, chivalry.
    “If you needs must write, write Caesar's praise; You 'll gain at least a knighthood, or the bays.” Pope.
  2. 2.
    The whole body of knights.
    “The knighthood nowadays are nothing like the knighthood of old time.” Chapman.