peerage

[peer-ij]

noun

1. the body of peers of a country or state.

2. the rank or dignity of a peer.

3. a book listing the peers and giving their genealogies.

peerage

/ ˈpɪərɪdʒ /

noun

1. the whole body of peers; aristocracy

2. the position, rank, or title of a peer

3. (esp in the British Isles) a book listing the peers and giving genealogical and other information about them

Word History and Origins

Origin of peerage¹

First recorded in 1425–75, peerage is from the late Middle English word perage. See peer ², -age

Example Sentences

The prime minister is under no constitutional obligation to elevate members of opposition parties, but will often ask opposition leaders to nominate individuals for peerage.

From BBC

He was awarded a life peerage by former PM Tony Blair in 1999.

From BBC

The story she told time and time again to a grateful media brought her fame, riches, and even a peerage.

From BBC

In July 2001 he was found guilty and spent two years in jail, but retained his peerage and membership of the House of Lords as there was no mechanism to remove them at the time.

From BBC

I'm sad but I think what will happen... is that the very best of the hereditary peers will be invited to have a life peerage.

From BBC

Related Words

• dignity 
• generosity 
• grandeur 
• greatness 
• integrity 
• superiority 
• upper class 
• virtue