noun
baron
BAIR-uhn/ˈbærən/
A nobleman of a rank below a viscount.
The baron sits beside his ceremonial coronet.
Etymology
The older meaning 'nobleman' or 'lord' supplies the image behind a business baron: someone whose power within an industry resembles a lord's authority.
In context
Jim Hill encouraged a lumber baron from Minnesota to launch what would become the vast timber industry in the Northwest.
More examples
- The baron inherits his title and takes his seat among the nobles.
- Several barons oppose the king's proposed tax.
- The herald announces the arrival of the baron at court.
Forms
baron · barons
Similar words
- nobleman
- Names the social class rather than this specific rank.
- magnate
- Names a powerful business figure without a hereditary title.