earl

earl. A title of nobility, formerly the highest in England but now the third highest, ranking between a marquis and a viscount. • This title corresponds with the French comte and the German graf. Originating with the Saxons, this title is the most ancient of the English peerage. William the Conqueror first made the title hereditary, giving it in fee to his nobles. No territorial, private, or judicial rights now accompany the title; it merely confers nobility and a hereditary seat in the House of Lords.

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词条贡献者

译者Natalie，在一家西班牙律师事务所的北京办公室担任全职法律翻译，擅长翻译涉及医疗健康领域的法律文件。