■ adjective ( ~r , ~st )
1》 belonging by rank, title, or birth to the aristocracy.
2》 having fine personal qualities or high moral principles.
3》 imposing; magnificent.
■ noun
1》 (especially in former times) a person of ~ rank or birth.
2》 historical a former English gold coin.
Phrases
the ~ art (or science ) (of self-defence) chiefly archaic boxing.
Derivatives
~ness noun
nobly adverb
Origin
ME: from OFr., from L. (g)nobilis 'noted, high-born'.