baron

noun

bar·​on ˈber-ən 

ˈba-rən

1

a

: one of a class of tenants holding his rights and title by military or other honorable service directly from a feudal superior (such as a king)

b

: a lord of the realm : noble, peer

2

a

: a member of the lowest grade of the peerage in Great Britain

b

: a nobleman on the continent of Europe of varying rank

c

: a member of the lowest order of nobility in Japan

3

: a joint of meat consisting of two sirloins or loins and legs not cut apart at the backbone

a baron of beef

4

: a man who possesses great power or influence in some field of activity

a cattle baron

Synonyms of baron

• magnate
• tycoon
• king

Examples of baron in a Sentence

a media baron who owns newspapers, television and radio stations, and even several cable networks

Recent Examples on the Web

Grok Imagine offers a Black Mirror-esque window into how AI can be leveraged for harm, and yet, as so often feels the case, never-out-the-news tech baron Musk powers on stronger than ever. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 9 Jan. 2026

In his final episode, McCoy gives up his career to ensure a tech baron with deep political ties faces justice. —Allison Degrushe, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Jan. 2026

Sheridan’s shows tend to be ensemble showcases, making this tale of Texas oil barons a serious contender here. —Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026

In two years, the Buffs have hopped from the land of tech bros (the old Pac-12) to a conference of oil barons (the Big 12) who swim in fast cash and Texas tea. —Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German baro freeman

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing baron

• robber baron

Rhymes for baron

• barren

Kids Definition

baron

noun

bar·​on ˈbar-ən 

1

: a member of the lowest rank of the British nobility

2

: a person of great power or influence

a cattle baron