what is an earl

An earl is a rank of the nobility in the United Kingdom. The title originates from the Old English word "eorl," meaning "a man of noble birth or rank". The word is cognate with the Scandinavian form "jarl," and meant "chieftain," particularly a chieftain with control over several subordinate chieftains. In modern Britain, an earl is a member of the peerage, ranking below a marquess and above a viscount. An earl has the title Earl of . In either case, he is referred to as Lord . A feminine form of earl never developed; instead, countess is used. The eldest son of an earl, whatever his title, always takes precedence immediately after the viscounts. The younger sons of earls are styled "Honourable". At present, there are 191 earls (not including the Earl of Wessex and courtesy earldoms).