# Ethel

/ˈɛθəɫ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

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

## Definition

an old word for noble or high-ranking. You might see it in very old stories or as part of a name.

For teachers: pertaining to noble birth or high social status. Primarily found in Old English contexts or as a component in Germanic personal names.

## Examples

- The ethel prince led his people with great wisdom.
- In the ancient poem, the warrior was described as ethel to emphasize his royal lineage and right to rule.
- While the term ethel has largely vanished from modern speech, its roots remain visible in historical names like Ethelred, where it signified a noble or divine counsel.

## Usage notes

- Archaic; typically used in historical or literary contexts referring to Anglo-Saxon or Germanic nobility.

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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.