second estate
The 'second estate' refers to the nobility in the hierarchical social structure of medieval and early modern Europe, particularly in France before 1789.
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Definition
C1Historical
(technical, academic)The social class in pre-revolutionary France that consisted of the nobility, including titled nobles and royalty other than the monarch.
Example
- The second estate enjoyed numerous privileges, including exemptions from certain taxes.
B2General
(historical)A term used to refer to the noble class in various European societies, distinguished from the clergy and commoners.
Example
- In medieval Europe, the second estate played a crucial role in governance and military affairs.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "second estate":