noblesse

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They rode to work in Rolls-Royces and adhered to a Protestant ethic of noblesse oblige.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 21, 2025

When Pritzker finds himself explaining why he does what he does, he often falls back on the vague language of noblesse oblige—that “we” have a responsibility to “lift up” or “stand up” for “the vulnerable.”

From Slate • Sep. 18, 2025

Given the vast wealth gap between likely patrons and these portrait-subjects, the question creates an inescapable aura of noblesse oblige.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 31, 2023

But there is no noblesse oblige or courtly love, no dragons, witchy women or aggrandizing British accents.

From New York Times • Oct. 13, 2021

I had the impression it was difficult for him to take my hand, but, noblesse oblige, he did.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey