EARL Meaning and
Definition
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An earl is a title bestowed upon a nobleman who holds a high-ranking position in the British peerage system. Derived from the Old English word "eorl," meaning warrior or nobleman, an earl is typically considered to be of high social standing and holds a hereditary rank just below that of a marquess and above that of a viscount. The title of an earl comes after that of a baron and is bestowed upon individuals by the reigning monarch, often as a mark of honor or as a reward for their services to the Crown.
In terms of governance, an earl often holds a significant estate or a piece of land, known as the earldom, which may encompass several manors and multiple tenants. Historically, earls had administrative duties and played an important role in managing the affairs of their estates, including collecting rents and taxes, maintaining law and order, and resolving disputes.
Within the British peerage, an earl is typically addressed as "My Lord" or "Your Lordship," and their wives are referred to as "Countess." It is worth noting that the specific privileges and responsibilities associated with the title can vary over time and among different countries. However, the central principle behind an earl remains the same: an individual who holds a distinguished rank within the aristocracy due to their lineage, social status, and contributions to society.
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In Great Britain, a nobleman third in rank, being above a viscount and below a marquis.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for EARL *
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Other Common Misspellings for EARL
Etymology of EARL
The word "earl" is derived from the Old English word "eorl", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*erlaz". The term "eorl" originally referred to a nobleman or warrior in the early medieval period. In Old Norse, this term is "jarl", which had a similar meaning. The Proto-Germanic root "*erlaz" ultimately means "man" or "warrior". Over time, the meaning of "earl" evolved to denote a noble title below that of a duke or marquess in the British peerage system.
Idioms with the word EARL
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talk to earl
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call earl
To "call Earl" means to admit defeat or give up. It is often used in a sarcastic or resigned manner to acknowledge that something is not going to work out as planned.
Similar spelling words for EARL
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