Margrave (Noun)
Meaning 1
A German nobleman ranking above a count (corresponding in rank to a British marquess).
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- In the 18th century, the title of margrave was held by the ruler of several German territories, including Baden and Brandenburg.
- The margrave's estate encompassed not only vast tracts of land but also several villages and towns.
- Otto was bestowed the title of margrave by the king in recognition of his unwavering loyalty.
- During the Thirty Years' War, the margrave of Brandenburg played a crucial role in shaping the fate of the Holy Roman Empire.
- In Germany, the office of margrave ranked immediately beneath the title of duke, granting its holder considerable authority and prestige.
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
The military governor of a frontier province in medieval Germany.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The margrave of Brandenburg led a successful military campaign against the invading Slavs in the 12th century.
- A margrave was often responsible for defending a stretch of border land with limited resources and manpower.
- The margrave, who was also a duke, maintained a delicate balance of power in his province through strategic marriages and alliances.
- By the time of the investiture controversy, the margrave had become a powerful counterbalance to the Holy Roman Emperor's authority.
- The position of margrave was usually hereditary, passing from father to son and taking precedence over other noble titles in the region.