noble
UK: ˈnəʊbl | US: ˈnoʊbl
adj. having high moral qualities or ideals; honorable
adj. belonging to a hereditary aristocratic class
n. a person of aristocratic birth or high social rank
noble = nob<high rank> + le<adjective suffix>
- nob (from Latin nobilis "well-known, high-born") → Retains the core idea of elevated status.
- le (a common Old French/Latin adjectival suffix) → Converts the root into a descriptive term.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin nobilis, meaning "notable" or "high-born," derived from noscere ("to know"). It originally referred to those whose status made them widely recognized. Over time, noble expanded beyond aristocracy to denote moral excellence, reflecting the cultural association of high rank with virtue.
She dedicated her life to noble causes like education and equality.
The king was surrounded by his noble advisors.
Despite his wealth, he remained humble and noble in character.
The castle was once home to a noble family.
His noble sacrifice inspired generations.