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Gentleman

A Law Dictionary, Adapted to the Constitution and Laws of the United States · John Bouvier · 1839

A Law Dictionary, Adapted to the Constitution and Laws of the United States

Inthe English law, according to Sir Edward Coke, is one who bears a coat of armour.

2 Inst. 667.

In the United States this word is unknown to the law, but in many places the word is applied by courtesy to all men, rich or poor, black or white.