noun
squire
A country gentleman or landowner of high local standing.
The village squire owns the large estate beyond the church.
Etymology
The knight's attendant title developed into a rank associated with gentlemen. Rural usage applied it to a prominent local landowner.
More examples
- The squire hosted a harvest gathering.
- Several neighboring squires attended.
- A dispute arose between the squire and his tenants.
Forms
squire · squires
Similar words
- landowner
- The neutral property holder without implied local social status.
- gentleman
- Gentleman need not imply ownership of a local country estate.