burgrave

[ bur-greyv ]

noun

, German History.

1. the appointed head of a fortress.
2. the hereditary governor of a castle or town.

burgrave

/ ˈbɜːɡreɪv /

noun

1. the military governor of a German town or castle, esp in the 12th and 13th centuries
2. a nobleman ruling a German town or castle by hereditary right

Word History and Origins

Origin of burgrave¹

1540–50; < German Burggraf, equivalent to Burg castle, town + Graf count

Word History and Origins

Origin of burgrave¹

C16: from German Burggraf , from Old High German burg borough + grāve count

Example Sentences

Her father thought they would probably have a dance there, for the young sons of the Burgrave would act as hosts.

From Project Gutenberg

The object of its ardent passion was no less a personage than the Burgrave von Zollern.

From Project Gutenberg

To apply to the Emperor again every one, including the magistrate, had declared useless, since even the Burgrave had been refused.

From Project Gutenberg

The Swiss had also provided white roses from the Burgrave's garden to fasten at the square neck of Eva's dress.

From Project Gutenberg

He was hereditary burgrave of Antwerp, but officer of Philip's never more.

From Project Gutenberg