Definition of marchioness

The word "marchioness" is derived from the Italian "marchese," meaning "marcher" or "high-ranking noble." It originally referred to a nobleman with authority to "march" or govern a specific region or march, which was a territorial division under feudal Europe. In the 13th century, the title "marchese" was adopted by the nobility of Italy, particularly the Este family, to differentiate themselves from the more powerful counts (conte). When this title was translated into French as "marquis," it became a hereditary title of nobility. The feminine form, "marchioness," emerged in the 16th century as the wife or widow of a marquis. Today, the title is still used in the United Kingdom and other European countries to refer to the wife or widow of a marquess, the highest rank below a duke.