Definitions from Black's Law Dictionary: 2nd Edition and Ballentine's Law Dictionary as are available for each term in each dictionary.
  • Ballentine's Law Dictionary

    An earl.

  • Black's Law Dictionary: 2nd Edition

    In old English law. The most eminent dignity of a subject before the Co.nquest. He was præfectus or prœpositus comitatus, and had the charge and custody of the county; but this authority Is now vested In the sheriff. 9 Coke, 46.