Marshal

Marshal (also spelled Marshall) is a word used in several official titles of various branches of society. The word derives from Old Germanic marah "horse" and scalc "servant", and originally meant "stable keeper". As marshals became betrusted members of the courts of Middle Ages Europe, the title grew in reputation. During the last few centuries, it has been used for the most elevated offices. The spelling of the name ("Marshall") is often confused with the spelling of the title ("Marshal").

Ceremonial

• In feudal times, at many courts one or more of the major dignitaries were styled marshal or a compound such as court marshall or grand marshall; their functions varied, also in time, but frequently included formally announcing guests at audiences, balls, diners etcetera. Such prestigious office was often made hereditary in the high nobility, e.g. the English Earl Marshal.
• Still in modern pageantry, e.g. Grand marshal of an annual parade