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Earl: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ‘‘
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earl

 

[ ษœหrl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

noble title

An earl is a title of nobility in the British peerage system, ranking above a viscount and below a marquess. Historically, earls were granted land and authority over a territory in exchange for military service to the king. The title is derived from the Old English term 'eorl', which meant chief or leader. Earls often played significant roles in local governance and were responsible for the administration of justice and defense. The title is still used today, although its practical power has diminished over the centuries.

Synonyms

aristocrat, lord, nobleman

Examples of usage

  • The earl hosted a grand banquet at his estate.
  • She was invited to the wedding of the earl's daughter.
  • The earl's lands were vast and fertile, covering several counties.

Translations

Translations of the word "earl" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น conde

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เคพเค‰เค‚เคŸ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Graf

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ count

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะณั€ะฐั„

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ hrabia

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ไผฏ็ˆต

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท comte

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ conde

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท kont

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋ฐฑ์ž‘

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ูƒูˆู†ุช

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ hrabฤ›

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ grรณf

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ไผฏ็ˆต

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ grof

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ grafi

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะณั€ะฐั„

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ™แƒแƒœแƒ“แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ graf

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ conde

Etymology

The word 'earl' traces its roots back to the Old English 'eorl', which is derived from an earlier Germanic word meaning 'chief' or 'leader'. In the social hierarchy of early medieval England, earls held significant power and were entrusted with the governance of large estates and regions. The term became formalized as a title during the 11th century when the Norman Conquest established a new feudal order in England. Following the Norman invasion, the title was often associated with land held by loyal subjects of the king. In the centuries that followed, the role and power of earls evolved, reflecting changes in the monarchy and society. Today, the title is largely ceremonial, yet it remains a recognized part of the British aristocracy, symbolizing historical legacy and privilege.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,292 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.