Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A French aristocrat and military officer: This name refers to a historical figure, specifically a French soldier who fought in the American Revolutionary War as a key ally to the Continental Army.

Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The contributions of Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier were vital to the American cause.
  • Historians study the life of Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier.

Advanced Usage

• This full name is primarily used in formal historical or biographical contexts to refer to the individual with precision.
• In common historical discourse, this figure is almost exclusively referred to by his title, the Marquis de Lafayette, or simply Lafayette.

Variants and Related Words

• Lafayette (Proper noun): The common name and title used to refer to this individual.
• Marquis de Lafayette (Proper noun): His noble title, which is the standard form of reference.

Synonyms

• Lafayette: The principal synonym.
• The Marquis de Lafayette: A formal synonym using his title.

Notes

• The entry "Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier" functions as a unique identifier for the person. It is not used in everyday language but appears in formal records and detailed historical texts.
• When this full name is used, it is typically to emphasize his French identity and aristocratic lineage before introducing his more commonly known name, Lafayette.

Noun

1. French soldier who served under George Washington in the American Revolution (1757-1834)