conde

Conde is a rank of nobility used in the Spanish and Portuguese kingdoms, equivalent to the English "count." The title dates from medieval Iberia and was widely used in Spain, Portugal, and their overseas territories.

Etymology: The term derives from Latin comes meaning companion or associate; in Romance languages it developed into conde/conde. The female form is condesa (Spanish) or condessa (Portuguese).

Historically, a conde governed a region or lordship, held lands, presided over courts, and provided military service to the crown. The title could be granted by the monarch and was normally hereditary, passing to heirs subject to succession rules.

In modern times, noble titles survive as social and ceremonial designations in Spain and Portugal, but they do not confer legal jurisdiction or privileges. Succession is governed by respective noble and heraldic laws, and titles are often used as courtesy names by descendants.

Outside nobility, Conde is used as a surname in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries and appears in place names and geographic references.