nobility
noh-BIH-lih-tee
Nobility (noun) means the aristocratic social class, historically holding hereditary titles and privilege. Example: “The nobility once controlled most of the land in the kingdom.”
noun
1
The aristocratic social class, historically holding hereditary titles and privilege.
"Titles of nobility were passed down through generations."
"The castle was once home to the Scottish nobility."
"The nobility once controlled most of the land in the kingdom."
"Members of the nobility were often given land and special rights."
"In the novel, a young woman from a poor family marries into the nobility."
2
The quality of having high moral character or dignity.
"There was a quiet nobility in how she handled the setback."
"The nurse's nobility showed when she stayed late to comfort a frightened patient."
"We admired the nobility of his decision to give the prize to his rival."
How to use nobility
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither the upper social class with inherited titles, or admirable moral character.
Common pairings
landed nobility
nobility of spirit
title of nobility
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Word forms
- Plural
- nobilities
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The _____ once controlled most of the land in the kingdom.
Etymology
From Old French nobilité, from Latin nobilitas, built on "noble" plus "-ity."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for nobility
See all rhymes for nobility →Frequently asked questions
What does “nobility” mean?
The word “nobility” means the aristocratic social class, historically holding hereditary titles and privilege. In plain terms, either the upper social class with inherited titles, or admirable moral character.
How do you pronounce “nobility”?
“Nobility” is pronounced noh-BIH-lih-tee (/noʊˈbɪlɪti/ in IPA).
How do you use “nobility” in a sentence?
Here is “nobility” used in a sentence: “The nobility once controlled most of the land in the kingdom.”
What part of speech is “nobility”?
“Nobility” is a noun.
Where does the word “nobility” come from?
The word “nobility” comes from Latin. From Old French nobilité, from Latin nobilitas, built on "noble" plus "-ity.".
Is “nobility” a common word?
“Nobility” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “nobility” have?
“Nobility” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the aristocratic social class, historically holding hereditary titles and privilege.
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