esquire
word
Definition
'Esquire' is a formal title added after a man's name, especially in the US for lawyers, and historically, it referred to a young nobleman acting as a knight's assistant.
Usage & Nuances
Today, 'Esquire' (often shortened as 'Esq.') is most commonly used in the US in writing after lawyers' names ('John Smith, Esq.'). Rarely spoken aloud. In the UK, it is largely historical or ceremonial. May sound old-fashioned outside legal contexts.
Example Sentences
His name is John Smith, Esquire.
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You don't need to call him esquire out loud—it's written, not spoken.
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Back in medieval times, being an esquire was the first step to becoming a knight.
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In the past, an esquire helped a knight.
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Many lawyers use esquire after their names.
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If you see 'Esq.' in a letter, it usually means the person is a lawyer.
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