# marquis

/ˌmɑɹˈki/ (US) · /mɑːrkˈiː/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. nobleman

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal

a man of high social rank in the nobility, below a duke but above an earl or count.

For teachers: a member of the peerage ranking below a duke and above an earl or count; historically, a lord responsible for defending border territories.

- The marquis lived in a grand castle that had been in his family for centuries.
- The marquis attended the royal coronation, wearing the traditional robes and coronet associated with his rank in the peerage.

Usage: Often used with 'of' followed by a place name, or as a direct title before a surname.

## Examples

- The marquis lived in a large castle in the countryside.
- The marquis attended the royal ball to represent his family's interests at court.
- Historical records indicate that the marquis held significant land rights along the border, serving as a strategic buffer between the two warring duchies.

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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.