marquis
Marquis (noun) means a nobleman ranking below a duke and above a count, historically responsible for defending a border region. Example: “The marquis governed the lands along the frontier.”
How to use marquis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA European noble title, ranking between count and duke.
Word forms
marquises plural, marquis plural, marquisses plural, Marquises plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ governed the lands along the frontier.
Etymology
From Old French "marchis," related to "march" in the sense of a border territory — a marquis was originally a lord who guarded the borders of a kingdom.
Rhymes for marquis
See all rhymes for marquis →Frequently asked questions
What does “marquis” mean?
The word “marquis” means a nobleman ranking below a duke and above a count, historically responsible for defending a border region. In plain terms, a European noble title, ranking between count and duke.
How do you pronounce “marquis”?
“Marquis” is pronounced MAH-kwihs (/mɑɹˈki/ in IPA).
How do you use “marquis” in a sentence?
Here is “marquis” used in a sentence: “The marquis governed the lands along the frontier.”
What part of speech is “marquis”?
“Marquis” is a noun.
Where does the word “marquis” come from?
The word “marquis” comes from Old French. From Old French "marchis," related to "march" in the sense of a border territory — a marquis was originally a lord who guarded the borders of a kingdom.
Is “marquis” a common word?
“Marquis” is an uncommon word in modern English.