Nobile (aristocracy)

Nobile ([ˈnɔːbile], abbreviated Nob.) is an Italian hereditary title borne by a noble who ranks similarly or just below a baron, similar to the rank of Baronet in England, Fidalgo in Portugal or Ritter in Germany.^[1] Unlike higher Italian titles which are typically referred to in lieu of an individual's name, nobile is used immediately before the given and surnames, usually in the abbreviated form Nob..

The word “nobile” is derived from the Latin “nobilis”, meaning "honourable". It is often abbreviated to "N.H." (Nobilis Homo) for men or "N.D." (Nobilis Domina) for women, just prior to the first name, and such noblemen are styled "Your/His Lordship".^[2]^[3]

The heraldic coronet of a nobile consists of a jewelled circlet of gold surmounted by five pearls, either on stems or set directly upon the rim. The armorial shield of a nobile is surmounted by a silver helm displayed in a ¾ side-view and surmounted by the coronet already described. It is typically displayed above the shield in the full heraldic achievement associated with a noble's specific title.

^ J. H. Pinches: "European Nobility and Heraldry", Heraldry Today 1994, p. 146
^ Damrosch, Leo (February 24, 2022). "Adventurer: The Life and Times of Giacomo Casanova". Yale University Press – via Google Books.
^ Weideger, Paula (August 21, 2012). Venetian Dreaming. Simon and Schuster. ISBN 9781439122334 – via Google Books.

[1] J. H. Pinches: "European Nobility and Heraldry", Heraldry Today 1994, p. 146

[2] Damrosch, Leo (February 24, 2022). "Adventurer: The Life and Times of Giacomo Casanova". Yale University Press – via Google Books.

[3] Weideger, Paula (August 21, 2012). Venetian Dreaming. Simon and Schuster. ISBN 9781439122334 – via Google Books.

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