1. the nobility or aristocratic class of a society
Usage: formal; often used in historical contexts
2. noble character or conduct; the quality of being noble in mind or spirit
Usage: formal; literary

Examples

• The French noblesse lost much of their power during the Revolution.
• He was born into the noblesse but chose to live simply.
• The old noblesse maintained their estates for centuries.
• Her actions showed a true noblesse of spirit.
• The noblesse oblige tradition required the wealthy to help the poor.
• Members of the noblesse were expected to serve in the military.
• The decline of the noblesse marked the end of an era.