1. Female Equivalent of Baron:
* This is the most common meaning. A baroness is the female equivalent of a baron, a nobleman of low rank.
* In some countries, a baroness is the wife of a baron, but in others, she can hold the title in her own right.
2. Title Held by Women in Their Own Right:
* In some countries, women can inherit a barony or be granted one by the sovereign.
* These baronesses hold the title independently of their marital status.
3. Courtesy Title:
* Sometimes, the daughters of a baron or the wives of a baron's sons may be referred to as "Baroness" as a courtesy title, even though they don't technically hold the title.
In summary, a baroness is a woman who holds the title of nobility equivalent to a baron, either through marriage or inheritance. The exact meaning and usage can vary slightly depending on the specific country and its traditions.