Earl (noun)

1. A nobleman of the highest rank in the British peerage, ranking above a viscount and below a marquess.
2. A British nobleman ranking below a marquess and above a viscount.

Origin:

Old english eorl, of germanic origin; related to german adel and dutch edel "noble".

Examples:

1. The Earl of Essex was a powerful figure in the court of Elizabeth I.
2. The Earl of Snowdon is the son of the former Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain.
3. The Earl of Chester is the oldest earldom in the Peerage of England, dating back to the 11th century.
4. The earl inherited his title and lands from his father.
5. Earl Grey tea is a tea blend which is flavoured with the addition of oil of bergamot.