baronets
|bar-o-net|
/ˈbærənət/
(baronet)
hereditary title
Etymology
'baronet' originates from Middle French, formed from 'baron' with the diminutive suffix '-et' (meaning 'little' or 'young').
'baronet' entered English in the early 17th century (first recorded c.1611) when James I created the hereditary rank called a baronet; the English word developed directly from the French formation.
Initially a diminutive meaning 'little baron' or 'young baron', it evolved into the specific title for a hereditary low-ranking noble rather than merely a diminutive form of 'baron'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'baronet': holders of a hereditary title (created in England in the early 17th century) ranking below barons and above most knights; male holders are styled 'Sir'.
Several baronets attended the county ceremony.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/18 07:28