Baronet vs. Baronetcy — What's the Difference?

A baronet ( or ; abbreviated Bart or Bt) or the rare female equivalent, a baronetess (, , or ; abbreviation Btss), is the holder of a baronetcy, a hereditary title awarded by the British Crown. The practice of awarding baronetcies was originally introduced in England in the 14th century and was used by James I of England in 1611 as a means of raising funds.

The rank or dignity of a baronet or baronetess.

A man holding a British hereditary title of honor reserved for commoners, ranking immediately below the barons and above all orders of knighthood except the Garter.

The rank of a baronet.

Used as the title for such a man.

The rank or patent of a baronet.

The bearer of a hereditary title, below a peerage and senior to most knighthoods, accompanied by the titular prefix "Sir" (for men) or "Dame" (for women) which is used in conjunction with the holder's Christian name. It is inheritable, usually by the eldest son, although a few baronetcies can also pass through the female line.

The rank or dignity or position of a baronet or baroness

A dignity or degree of honor next below a baron and above a knight, having precedency of all orders of knights except those of the Garter. It is the lowest degree of honor that is hereditary. The baronets are commoners.

The title of a baron

A member of the British order of honor; ranks below a baron but above a knight;