countess
Countess (noun) means the wife of a count or earl, or a woman who holds that rank in her own right. Example: “The countess hosted a grand ball at her estate.”
How to use countess
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA noblewoman equal in rank to a count or earl.
Word forms
countesses plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ hosted a grand ball at her estate.
Etymology
From Old French contesse, from Latin comitissa, the feminine form of comes ("count").
Frequently asked questions
What does “countess” mean?
The word “countess” means the wife of a count or earl, or a woman who holds that rank in her own right. In plain terms, a noblewoman equal in rank to a count or earl.
How do you pronounce “countess”?
“Countess” is pronounced KOWN-tihs (/ˈkaʊntɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “countess” in a sentence?
Here is “countess” used in a sentence: “The countess hosted a grand ball at her estate.”
What part of speech is “countess”?
“Countess” is a noun.
Where does the word “countess” come from?
The word “countess” comes from Latin. From Old French contesse, from Latin comitissa, the feminine form of comes ("count").
Is “countess” a common word?
“Countess” is an uncommon word in modern English.