earl

word

/ˈɝɫ/
url
/ˈɜːl/
url

Definition

An earl is a British nobleman with a hereditary title. It is a rank in the traditional system of nobility, roughly similar to a count in many other European countries.

Usage & Nuances

Used mainly in historical, royal, or formal contexts, not in everyday modern life. In British nobility, 'earl' is the English title where many other languages use an equivalent of 'count'; common patterns include 'the Earl of + place' and references to inheritance or aristocratic families.

Example Sentences

The earl lived in a large stone castle.

basic

Her father was an earl.

basic

The king invited the earl to dinner.

basic

In that period drama, the earl is more interesting than the prince.

natural

Apparently, she's related to an earl on her mother's side.

natural

He inherited the title of earl after his uncle died.

natural