countess Definition
- 1the wife or widow of a count or earl
- 2a woman holding the rank of count or earl in her own right
Using countess: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "countess" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The Countess of Wessex is a member of the British royal family.
Example
She was born into a family of countesses and duchesses.
Example
The countess inherited the title from her father, who passed away last year.
countess Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for countess
Phrases with countess
a title given to the wife of a count or earl, but not having the same rank as a countess in her own right
Example
She is addressed as Lady Smith, as she holds the courtesy title of a countess.
Example
The countess dowager still attends royal events, despite her husband's passing.
a female ruler of a territory that has the same rights and privileges as a count or earl
Example
The countess palatine was known for her just rule and patronage of the arts.
Origins of countess
from Old French 'comte', meaning 'count'
Summary: countess in Brief
A 'countess' [ˈkaʊntɪs] is a woman who is either the wife or widow of a count or earl, or a woman who holds the rank of count or earl in her own right. The term is used to refer to noblewomen, aristocrats, and peeresses. Examples include 'The Countess of Wessex is a member of the British royal family.' and 'The countess inherited the title from her father, who passed away last year.'
