Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Marquess

      Origin

      English, French

      Meaning

      Noble Title, Derived from March (border)

      Variations

      Marquessa, Demarquess, Marquesa
      The title of marquess (or marquis) is a noble rank that historically signifies a high-ranking aristocrat, typically positioned just below a duke. The term originates from the French word marquis, which itself derives from the Old French marchis, meaning a ruler of a border territory, or march. This etymology reflects the function of a marquess, who was originally tasked with overseeing frontier lands, known as marches, that were strategically important for the defense of the realm. The title encapsulates both nobility and historical responsibility, underscoring its significance in feudal society.

      The title of marquess first emerged in the 14th century in France and quickly spread to other European countries, including England, where it was formally established in 1385. The elevation of the marquessate was a strategic response to the political landscape of the time, particularly the need for effective governance and defense of frontier regions. The role of the marquess continued to evolve, often serving as a vassal with considerable military and administrative responsibilities. Throughout European history, marquesses played crucial roles in regional governance, warfare, and the politics of succession, which cemented their status as influential figures within the aristocracy.

      In contemporary society, the title of marquess is largely ceremonial and holds a significant place within the context of heritage and aristocracy. While the political power associated with noble titles has diminished, marquesses still retain their titles through inheritance, and they often engage in cultural, charitable, and social endeavors. In countries like the United Kingdom, marquesses are recognized as part of the peerage system, attending events and participating in societal functions. The title serves as a reminder of the historical hierarchies and traditions that continue to shape modern aristocratic life, emphasizing the enduring legacy of nobility in today's world.

      Based on our records...

      Grey

      Grey

      This is the most common surname associated with Marquess.
      Anne

      Anne

      This is the most common name of those married to a Marquess.
      William

      William

      This is the most common name for a child of a Marquess.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1905 is when there were the most people born with the first name Marquess.

      Explore the origins of another name.