Marquis vs. Duke: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Aimie Carlson || Updated on May 20, 2024
A marquis ranks below a duke but above an earl in British nobility, while a duke is the highest-ranking noble below the monarch. A marquis governs a border area; a duke controls a larger region or state.
Key Differences
A marquis is a noble rank that lies below a duke and above an earl in the British peerage system. The term "marquis" originates from "march," referring to a border area, indicating the marquis's traditional role of defending frontier territories. A duke, on the other hand, holds the highest rank of nobility below the monarch. The title "duke" comes from the Latin "dux," meaning leader. Dukes often govern large territories or states and wield significant influence and power within the realm.
In terms of social hierarchy, a marquis is outranked by a duke, reflecting their different levels of authority and land control. While marquises were crucial in protecting borders, dukes were often seen as closer advisors to the monarch and had substantial political sway.
A marquis's domain, historically called a "march," emphasized the defensive and military nature of their duties. In contrast, a duke's domain, often more central and extensive, underscored their broad administrative and leadership roles.
In modern times, the distinctions between these titles are more ceremonial than functional. A marquis still ranks below a duke, but the roles have become largely honorary, reflecting historical prestige rather than actual governance.
The differentiation in rank and responsibility between a marquis and a duke illustrates the complex structure of the British nobility, where titles denote both social status and historical duty.
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Comparison Chart
Rank
Below a duke, above an earl
Highest-ranking noble below monarch
Origin of Title
From "march," indicating border areas
From "dux," meaning leader
Traditional Role
Defender of frontier territories
Governor of large regions or states
Domain
Known as a "march"
Typically larger, central territories
Modern Significance
Largely honorary, reflecting historical role
Largely honorary, reflecting historical prestige
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Marquis and Duke Definitions
Marquis
A nobleman ranking below a duke and above an earl.
The marquis attended the royal banquet with other high-ranking nobles.
Duke
A title denoting significant power and influence.
The duke wielded great influence in court affairs.
Marquis
A title signifying high nobility in European countries.
He was granted the title of marquis by the king.
Duke
The highest-ranking nobleman below the monarch.
The duke was a close advisor to the king.
Marquis
Often involved in military and defense roles.
The marquis led his troops to defend the frontier.
Duke
Historically governed large territories or states.
The duke's lands were among the most fertile in the kingdom.
Marquis
A ceremonial title in modern times.
The marquis's estate is now a popular tourist attraction.
Duke
Often had both administrative and military responsibilities.
The duke commanded the royal army in battle.
Marquis
Historically, a ruler of a border territory.
The marquis fortified the borders against invasions.
Duke
In modern times, a largely honorary title.
The duke's title has been passed down through generations.
Marquis
A nobleman ranking below a duke and above an earl or a count.
Duke
A nobleman with the highest hereditary rank, especially a man of the highest grade of the peerage in Great Britain.
Marquis
Used as a title for such a nobleman.
Duke
A sovereign prince who rules an independent duchy in some European countries.
Marquis
Pl. mar·quis·es (-kwĭ-sĭz) (märkwĭs) Variant of marquess.
Duke
Used as the title for such a nobleman.
Marquis
A nobleman in England, France, and Germany, of a rank next below that of duke, but above a count. Originally, the marquis was an officer whose duty was to guard the marches or frontiers of the kingdom. The office has ceased, and the name is now a mere title conferred by letters patent or letters close.
Duke
Dukes(Slang) The fists
Put up your dukes!.
Marquis
Any of various nymphalid butterflies of the Asian genus Bassarona (or Euthalia).
Duke
(Botany) A type of cherry intermediate between a sweet and a sour cherry.
Marquis
A nobleman in England, France, and Germany, of a rank next below that of duke. Originally, the marquis was an officer whose duty was to guard the marches or frontiers of the kingdom. The office has ceased, and the name is now a mere title conferred by patent.
Duke
To fight, especially with fists
Duking it out.
Marquis
Humorist who wrote about the imaginary life of cockroaches (1878-1937)
Duke
The male ruler of a duchy (female equivalent: duchess).
Marquis
Nobleman (in various countries) ranking above a count
Duke
The sovereign of a small state.
Duke
A high title of nobility; the male holder of a dukedom.
Duke
A grand duke.
Duke
Any of various nymphalid butterflies of the Asian genera Bassarona and Dophla.
Duke
A fist.
Put up your dukes!
Duke
To hit or beat with the fists.
Duke
To give cash to; to give a tip to.
I duked him twenty dollars.
Duke
A leader; a chief; a prince.
Hannibal, duke of Carthage.
All were dukes once, who were "duces" - captains or leaders of their people.
Duke
In England, one of the highest order of nobility after princes and princesses of the royal blood and the four archbishops of England and Ireland.
Duke
In some European countries, a sovereign prince, without the title of king.
Duke
The fists; as, put up your dukes.
Duke
To play the duke.
Lord Angelo dukes it well in his absence.
Duke
To beat with the fists.
Duke
A British peer of the highest rank
Duke
A nobleman (in various countries) of high rank
FAQs
How does a duke's rank compare to a marquis?
A duke ranks higher than a marquis, being the highest-ranking noble below the monarch.
What is the rank of a marquis?
A marquis ranks below a duke and above an earl in the British nobility hierarchy.
What responsibilities did a marquis historically have?
Historically, a marquis was responsible for defending border territories.
What is the origin of the title "duke"?
The title "duke" comes from the Latin word "dux," meaning leader.
What is the origin of the title "marquis"?
The title "marquis" originates from "march," referring to border areas.
What was a marquis's primary duty in historical times?
A marquis's primary duty was to defend and manage frontier territories.
What is the female equivalent of a marquis?
The female equivalent of a marquis is a marchioness.
Are the titles of marquis and duke still used today?
Yes, but they are mostly honorary titles with historical significance.
What role did a duke have in historical contexts?
Dukes had significant administrative and military responsibilities.
Can a marquis become a duke?
In theory, yes, if the monarch grants the higher title.
What areas did a duke typically govern?
A duke typically governed large regions or states.
What is the female equivalent of a duke?
The female equivalent of a duke is a duchess.
What is a "march" in the context of a marquis?
A "march" is a border territory governed by a marquis.
How does modern significance of these titles differ from historical roles?
Today, these titles are largely ceremonial, reflecting historical roles and prestige.
Did dukes participate in the king’s council?
Yes, dukes often served as close advisors to the king.
Is the title "marquis" used outside of the UK?
Yes, it is used in various European countries with similar hierarchical significance.
Do marquises and dukes have legal authority today?
No, their titles are mainly honorary with no legal authority.
What was a duke's primary duty in historical times?
A duke's primary duty was to govern and protect large regions or states.
Were marquises involved in military campaigns?
Yes, marquises were often involved in defending borders and military campaigns.
How does the public perceive marquises and dukes today?
They are seen as part of historical tradition and cultural heritage.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
