ˈeˌkwes, ˈēˌkwēz noun
( plural eq·ui·tes ˈekwəˌtās, -ˌtēz)
Etymology: Latin, literally, horseman, from equus horse — more at equine
: a member of a Roman order between the senatorial order and the ordinary citizen serving originally as cavalry, having entrance requirements based on wealth, and having during some periods exclusive rights to certain judicial, financial, and military positions — called also knight