courtesy title

American  

noun

1. a title applied or assumed through custom, courtesy, or association and without regard for its being officially merited.

2. a title allowed by custom, as to the children of dukes.

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courtesy title British  

noun

1. any of several titles having no legal significance, such as those borne by the children of peers

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Etymology

Origin of courtesy title

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Ms Roberts told Newsnight that the duchess should "for sure" lose her courtesy title.

From BBC

When James was born, he was given the title Viscount Severn - a "courtesy" title as son of an earl, rather than using prince.

From BBC

The papers all ran well-sourced articles claiming it was a courtesy title with no real significance.

From BBC

Mr. Jordan asked whether the chief justice had used the courtesy title.

From Washington Times

The defense team has said in court filings that the suspect is nonbinary, referring to “Mx. Aldrich” — employing a gender-neutral courtesy title equivalent to “Ms.” or “Mr.” and pronounced “mix” — in documents and in open court, and saying Aldrich uses gender-neutral they/them pronouns.

From Seattle Times