Baronetized

/ˈbærənɪtaɪzd/ verb

Definition

Made into a baronet or given the rank and privileges of a baronet, which is a hereditary title below a knight.

Etymology

From baronet (from Old French baron + -et meaning 'little') plus -ize (to make or become) and -ed (past tense). The term emerged in 17th-century England when King James I created the baronetcy as a new social rank.

Kelly Says

King James I basically invented baronets as a way to raise money—you could literally buy your way into this hereditary title for about £1,095 in 1611, making it the first 'pay-to-play' honor system in English nobility.

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