WordGarden.ionoble
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈəʊbəl/
US
- /ˈnoʊbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
morally admirable, honorable, or high-minded
of high hereditary rank or associated with the aristocracy
chemically unreactive or resistant to corrosion, especially of gases or metals
Noun
a person who belongs to the nobility or aristocracy
Beyond the definition
The word "noble" carries a lot of history. At first, it described people from the highest social class, such as kings, queens, dukes, and earls. It brings to mind castles, crowns, and family titles. But "noble" is not just about birth. It also describes a person's character, especially when someone is honest, brave, generous, and willing to do the right thing. A noble act is done with selfless kindness. You might say a firefighter showed noble bravery by running into a burning building to save someone, or that a story character has a noble heart. So while the word can refer to social rank, it more often points to inner goodness and honor.
"Noble" is a word steeped in history and meaning, originally referring to those of high social rank—the aristocracy, such as lords and ladies. These were people born into privilege, holding titles and land passed down through generations. Think medieval knights upholding codes of chivalry; that's where the image of nobility comes from!
However, "noble" has grown beyond birthright. It now often describes admirable qualities of character. A noble person shows courage, honesty, generosity, and a strong sense of right and wrong. A noble deed is not about status; it is an act done with selfless kindness or bravery. For example, you might praise the noble actions of someone who risks their safety to help others, or say that a person stayed noble even when doing the right thing was hard.
The word can also describe something impressive, grand, or dignified, such as a noble building, a noble horse, or a noble tree. This sense connects to the idea of worth and dignity. The term also appears in science: noble gases, such as helium and neon, are gases that do not easily react with other elements, and noble metals, such as gold and platinum, resist corrosion and chemical change.
You'll often see "noble" paired with words like "cause," "heart," or "intention." The phrase "He dedicated his life to a noble cause" suggests he pursued something worthwhile and just. Ultimately, while "noble" still hints at aristocratic origins, it speaks to a higher standard of behavior—a commitment to honor, kindness, and doing what is right, regardless of personal cost. It's about being truly worthy of respect.
Examples
- 1
Moral action
He did a noble thing by telling the truth, even though it hurt his own career.
- 2
Good cause
They spent years raising money for a noble cause.
- 3
Idealistic plan
Her dream was noble, but the plan needed more money and time than anyone had.
- 4
Aristocratic family
The castle once belonged to a noble family with close ties to the king.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Historical class
In the old kingdom, nobles owned much of the land.
- 6
Chemistry
Argon is a noble gas used in some kinds of light bulbs.
- Domainnoble gas
a gas that usually does not react with other substances
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- noblenounadjective
Forms
- noblespluralnounadjective
- noblestsuperlativeadjectivenoun
- noblercomparativeadjectivenoun