Definition

A woman who is a member of the nobility or holds a noble title.

Example

The peeress attended the royal banquet in her elegant gown.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new peeress in town?

No, I didn't! What’s her story?

Apparently, she inherited a title from her family.

That sounds fascinating! I wonder what her life is like.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peeress → It is formed from "peer" (from Old French *per*, meaning equal or companion) and "-ess" (a suffix used to denote female gender). The word "peeress" refers to a woman who is equal in rank or status, particularly in nobility.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'peer' as someone who is an equal, and the '-ess' indicates that this is a female. A peeress is a woman who holds the same rank or status as her male counterparts.

Visually Confused Words