First Known Use: 12th century
Dictionary
earl
noun \ˈər(-ə)l\
: a high-ranking member of the British nobility
Full Definition of EARL
: a member of the British peerage ranking below a marquess and above a viscount
— earl·dom \-dəm\ noun
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Origin of EARL
Middle English erl, from Old English eorl warrior, nobleman; akin to Old Norse jarl warrior, nobleman
EARL Defined for Kids
earl
noun \ˈərl\
Definition of EARL for Kids
: a member of the British nobility who ranks below a marquess and above a viscount
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