Earl (/ ɜːrl, ɜːrəl /) [1] is a rank of the nobility in the United Kingdom. In modern Britain, an earl is a member of the peerage, ranking below a marquess and above a viscount. [2] A feminine form of earl never developed; [note 1] instead, countess is used. The title originates in the Old English word eorl, meaning "a man of noble birth or rank". [3] The word is cognate with the ...
Earl, title and rank of British nobility and peerage corresponding to the French comte or German Graf (count). The title, while it confers no official power or authority, is inalienable, indivisible, and descends in regular succession to all the heirs under the limitation in the grant until, on
What is an Earl? Learn about this noble title, its rank in the British peerage, history, and the role of earls throughout British history.
Even if you’re not from the U.K., you’re likely familiar with the titles of British nobility from countless movies and TV shows. Known as the peerage system, this noble hierarchy consists of five ranks today: duke, marquess, earl, viscount, and baron. The title of earl — the oldest in the peerage system — dates back to the end of the early medieval period, during the reign of King ...
The meaning of EARL is a member of the British peerage ranking below a marquess and above a viscount.
earl, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary
Define earl. earl synonyms, earl pronunciation, earl translation, English dictionary definition of earl. n. 1. A British nobleman next in rank above a viscount and below a marquis, corresponding to a count in continental Europe. 2. Used as a title for such a...