Knox

boyScottish Gaelic

Knox is a boy name of Scottish Gaelic origin, meaning “Round hill”.

MeaningRound hill
GenderBoy
OriginScottish Gaelic
PronunciationNOKS
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Australia, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Knox

Knox is a Scottish surname from the Gaelic cnoc, a hill or hillock, originally naming someone who lived on or near one. The surname is closely tied to John Knox, the sixteenth-century leader of the Scottish Reformation. As a first name it rose quickly in the US in the 2000s and 2010s, partly after the actors Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie gave the name to a son.

Is Knox a religious name?

Knox itself is a secular place-name, though many associate it with John Knox and Presbyterian history.

How popular is Knox?

Popular in the US and Australia in recent years.

Gifts with the name Knox

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Names similar to Knox

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Knox mean?

Knox means 'Round hill'. It is of Scottish Gaelic origin.

Does Knox have a religious meaning?

Knox itself is a secular place-name, though many associate it with John Knox and Presbyterian history.

How do you pronounce Knox?

Knox is pronounced NOKS.

Is Knox a boy or girl name?

Knox is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.