A "viscount" is a noble title in the British peerage system, ranking below an earl and above a baron. A viscount usually holds a specific geographical area or territory, and the title is often hereditary, passed down through generations. Viscounts may also have seats in the House of Lords and play roles in local governance.
The word "viscount" comes from the Old French term "viscomte," which is derived from "vice-" meaning "deputy" and "comte," meaning "count." The title originally indicated a deputy or assistant to a count.