marquis

Everyday

1. A marquis is a nobleman with a high title, ranking below a duke and above an earl or count. tree →
2. In Britain the title is usually spelled «marquess»; «marquis» is used in France and other countries. tree →
3. The wife of a marquis is a marchioness (UK) or a marquise (France). tree →

In the lessons

In history lessons about kings, queens and nobles, the marquis is one step on the ladder of titles: duke, marquess, earl, viscount, baron. In stories set in old France or Britain, a marquis is a rich, powerful aristocrat. Phrases: «the Marquis of ...», «the Marquis de ...».

Examples

• The marquis lived in a grand castle in France. tree →
• A marquis ranks below a duke. tree →
• In the novel, the cruel marquis rode past the starving villagers. tree →
• The Marquess of Bath owns a safari park in England. tree →
• The marquis bowed to the queen. tree →
• His title passed from the old marquis to his son. tree →
• "Truly a fine estate," said the King to the Marquis of Carabas. tree →

Note

Countable noun; plural marquises. Pronounced «MAR-kwis» (English) or «mar-KEE» (French style). Do not confuse with «marquee» (a big tent), which sounds like the French way of saying it.