noun

marquis

MAR-kwis/ˈmɑːrkwɪs/

A European nobleman ranking below a duke and above an earl or count.

The marquis stands in formal clothing beneath a low coronet.

A dignified European marquis in historically plausible noble clothing with a low coronet, standing in a formal estate hall, no text.

Etymology

marquisOld Frenchruler of a border territory

Old French marquis originally designated a ruler of the marches, or border territories. What began as a territorial office became a noble rank below duke and above earl or count.

In context

Sahari2:39

Today, an Earl outranks a Viscount but is below a Marquis, and the female equivalent is Countess.

Every Title in British Nobility & Royalty Explained In 6 Minutes

More examples

The marquis inherited the estate.
Several marquises attended the royal ceremony.
She addressed the marquis by his title.

Forms

marquis · marquises