count palatine

noun

, plural counts palatine.

1. (formerly, in Germany) a count having jurisdiction in his fief or province.
2. Also called earl palatine. English History. an earl or other county proprietor who exercised royal prerogatives within his county.

count palatine

noun

1. in the Holy Roman Empire
   1. originally an official who administered the king's domains or his justice
   2. later, a count who exercised royal authority in his own domains
2. (in England and Ireland) an earl or other lord of a county palatine
3. (in the late Roman Empire) a palace official who exercised judicial authority

Word History and Origins

Origin of count palatine¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

He was held prisoner for three years in Germany, but in the end bought his liberty from the count palatine.

From Project Gutenberg

One single German prince of little importance, the Count-palatine Philip, was present: he carried the orb.

From Project Gutenberg

However, in 1647 his title was formally admitted by Wolfgang, count palatine of Neuburg.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, to find a count and count palatine or paladine among the Florentine Consuls is an absolutely new thing.

From Project Gutenberg

He accompanied the count palatine of Zweibrcken to Poland, and on his return to Paris he devoted himself to writing.

From Project Gutenberg