# Earle

/ˈɝɫ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/earle
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

an old way of spelling 'earl', which is a high-ranking title for a nobleman in Britain. You will mostly see this spelling in very old books or historical documents.

For teachers: an archaic variant spelling of the noble title 'earl'. Refers to a member of the peerage ranking below a marquess and above a viscount.

## Examples

- The old document mentions the Earle of Warwick.
- In the 16th-century manuscript, the title was consistently spelled as Earle rather than the modern Earl.
- Scholars of early modern English often encounter the spelling Earle in personal correspondence and legal charters dating back to the Elizabethan era.

## Usage notes

- Archaic spelling; in modern English, 'earl' is the standard form.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.