Esquire (title)

"Esquire" is a professional honorific title used primarily in the United Kingdom and, to a lesser extent, in other English-speaking countries. Historically, it signified a person of some social standing or a gentleman, often a landowner or someone of noble birth. In modern usage, especially in the U.S., it is also used as a courtesy title for lawyers (e.g., "John Smith, Esquire"), indicating that they are licensed legal practitioners. The term's origins are rooted in medieval society, but today, it primarily functions as a respectful designation for certain professionals or individuals with a traditional or social prominence.