Definition

A woman who is a member of the nobility, ranking above a countess and below a duchess, or the wife or widow of a marquis.

Example

The marchioness hosted a grand ball at her estate.

Conversation

Did you hear that the new marchioness is moving into the neighborhood?

No way! That sounds interesting.

Yeah, I wonder what it will be like to have a noblewoman around.

It could be fun! Maybe she'll host some fancy events.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Marchioness → It is formed from "marchio" (from Latin, meaning marquis or lord of a border region) and the suffix "-ess" (meaning a female). The word "marchioness" refers to a female noble who holds the rank equivalent to a marquis.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'marquis' as a nobleman ruling a border area, and the '-ess' indicates that this is a female noble, making a marchioness a woman of noble rank.

Visually Confused Words