Legal Definitions - knight bachelor

Definition: A knight bachelor is a member of one of the orders of chivalry in English law, such as the Order of the Bath. It is also the usual title of the first degree that is conferred on a university graduate. Additionally, it refers to an unmarried man.

Examples:

• Prince William was made a knight bachelor by Queen Elizabeth II in 2008.
• John received his bachelor's degree in engineering from the University of Michigan.
• As a knight bachelor, Sir David has been recognized for his contributions to the arts and sciences.
• Although he was a successful businessman, Mr. Smith remained a bachelor his entire life.

The first example illustrates the use of "knight bachelor" as a title conferred by the Queen. The second example shows the use of "bachelor" as a degree earned by a university graduate. The third example demonstrates the use of "knight bachelor" as a recognition for contributions to society. The fourth example shows the use of "bachelor" to refer to an unmarried man.