escuyer

An escuyer, also spelled esquire, was a medieval rank or office. It was typically held by a young man of noble birth who served a knight, often as an armor-bearer or attendant. This role was a stage in a knight's training and education, preparing him for the responsibilities of knighthood. The escuyer would learn horsemanship, combat skills, and courtly manners through this apprenticeship.

The term "escuyer" derived from the Old French word for shield, "escu," reflecting the escuyer's duty to carry and care for his lord's shield and armor. In some contexts, the escuyer was a man of wealth and standing, even if not yet a knight. Over time, the term evolved. In later medieval and early modern periods, "esquire" also came to denote a social status below that of a knight but above that of a gentleman. It could be a hereditary title or granted by a sovereign. In some legal and ceremonial contexts, the title of esquire persisted for centuries, representing a distinguished position within the social hierarchy.