noblesse

noun

no·​blesse nō-ˈbles How to pronounce noblesse (audio)
1
: noble birth or condition
2
: the members especially of the French nobility

Examples of noblesse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Admitting the fact of noblesse might help encourage the ideal of oblige. —Samuel Goldman, Star Tribune, 31 Mar. 2021

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French noblesce, from noble

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of noblesse was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing noblesse

Dictionary Entries Near noblesse

noble savage

noblesse

noblesse oblige

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Cite this Entry

“Noblesse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/noblesse. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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