baronet
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
- baronetical adjective
Etymology
Origin of baronet
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at baron, -et
Explanation
A baronet is a fancy title in British nobility, ranking below a baron but above most knights. Unlike knighthood, the title of baronet is hereditary, meaning it is passed down to the descendants of the person who originally held it. The baronet title was created in the early 17th century by King James I in order to raise funds for the British crown. Originally, those who wanted the title had to pay a sum of money to the king. The title comes with a coat of arms, as well as other privileges and recognition. Like knights, a male baronet uses the prefix Sir before his name. Women and girls who carry the baronet title are referred to as baronetess and use the prefix Dame before their names.
Vocabulary lists containing baronet
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A professed “vello-maniac,” Mr. Phillipps, a quarrelsome baronet, bought manuscripts indiscriminately from booksellers with whom he engaged in ceaseless battle.
From New York Times • Oct. 31, 2023
She is also cushioned by wealth, her father being a baronet with connections and a country estate.
From Seattle Times • May 23, 2023
After the coronation, the king made Treves a baronet.
From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2023
Born into the family of an English baronet, young Lindsay-Hogg grew up among the small world of Hollywood royalty.
From Salon • Dec. 1, 2021
His companion only answered by a melancholy smile; and the conversation went on between the old gentleman and the young baronet till they reached the small town of Lenham, where they stopped again to dine.
From The Smuggler: (Vol's I-III) A Tale by James, G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
