Definition

A nobleman who has a rank that is lower than an earl and higher than a baron.

Example

The viscount hosted a grand dinner for his friends and family.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new viscount in town?

No, I didn't! What do you know about him?

Apparently, he has a huge estate and throws lavish parties.

That sounds exciting! We should try to get an invitation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Viscount → It is formed from "vice-" (meaning deputy or in place of) and "comte" (from Old French, meaning count). A viscount is a nobleman who acts as a deputy to a count, holding a rank below that of a count.

Memory Tip

Think of a viscount as someone who is a 'deputy' ('vice-') to a 'count' ('comte'), which helps you remember that a viscount holds a rank just below a count.

Visually Confused Words