Marchioness: meaning, definitions and examples

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marchioness

 

[ ˈmɑːrʃɪnɛs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

noble title

A marchioness is a noblewoman ranking above a countess and below a duchess. The title is typically conferred upon the wife of a marquis or held in her own right. In the British peerage system, a marchioness is considered a high-ranking title associated with land and estate ownership.

Synonyms

aristocrat, noblewoman, peeress

Examples of usage

  • The marchioness attended the royal ball in a stunning gown.
  • As a marchioness, she held considerable influence in society.
  • The young marchioness inherited vast estates upon her father's death.

Translations

Translations of the word "marchioness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 marquesa

🇮🇳 मार्क्वीज़

🇩🇪 Markgräfin

🇮🇩 markisa

🇺🇦 маркіза

🇵🇱 markiza

🇯🇵 マルキーズ

🇫🇷 marquise

🇪🇸 marquesa

🇹🇷 markiçe

🇰🇷 후작 부인

🇸🇦 ماركيز

🇨🇿 markýza

🇸🇰 markíza

🇨🇳 侯爵夫人

🇸🇮 markiza

🇮🇸 markís

🇰🇿 маркиза

🇬🇪 მარquise

🇦🇿 markiza

🇲🇽 marquesa

Etymology

The term 'marchioness' comes from the Old French word 'marquis', itself derived from the Latin 'marchio', meaning 'leader of a border region'. This reflects the historical role of a marquis as a nobleman responsible for defending the borders of a territory. The feminine form, 'marchioness', developed as a way to designate the wives of these rulers, as well as women who held the title in their own right. The use of 'marchioness' became more standardized during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance, aligning with the evolving social structures and customs of European nobility. The title remains in use today in various countries, particularly in the context of British aristocracy.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,688 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.