Definition

A person who owns a small amount of land and may also work as a farmer, often found in Ireland.

Example

The squireen tended to his fields while managing his small estate.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a squireen?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's someone who's part farmer and part landowner, mostly in Ireland.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know there was a specific term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'squireen' originates from the Old French 'esquirin', which is a diminutive form of 'esquire' (meaning a young squire or a young man of noble birth). It refers to a young squire or a young gentleman, often in a context of serving a knight or nobleman.

Memory Tip

Think of a young 'squire' — 'squireen' is a smaller or younger version of a squire, emphasizing youth and nobility.

Visually Confused Words