What does marque mean?
A marque is principally a large, projecting canopy that shelters the entrance to a building, such as a theater, hotel, or ceremonial pavilion. It usually appears as an architectural feature of some size and distinction, rather than as a small awning over an ordinary doorway. The word also has a specialized commercial meaning: the brand or manufacturer under which a vehicle or other product is sold. This sense is particularly familiar in British and European automotive contexts, where a company may be described as a leading or respected marque. The two meanings are connected historically through the idea of a visible mark or sign identifying a place or product. Although less common in everyday speech than the general words canopy, brand, or manufacturer, marque is useful for describing prominent architecture and prestigious, identifiable product lines.
A large projecting canopy or roof over an entrance, especially one belonging to a grand building.
"A long marque extended across the entrance to the exhibition grounds."
Chiefly British in architectural use; also standard in British and European automotive terminology.
The brand or manufacturer under which a product, especially a vehicle, is sold.
"The luxury marque announced a new electric sports car."
Especially common in British and European automotive usage.
Usually plural when referring to multiple vehicle brands or manufacturers; rare in ordinary architectural usage.
"Several established marques displayed their latest models."
The same word that shelters guests beneath a theater entrance can also name the prestigious maker of a motorcar.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does marque come from?
The word entered English from French marque, meaning a sign or mark, through the sense of a marked place or an entrance canopy. French marque comes from medieval Latin marca, a boundary or landmark, which also underlies cognates including mark, margin, and march. The architectural sense developed from the idea of a marked or designated entrance, while the commercial sense arose from a maker's identifying name or badge.
Related word forms
How marque is actually used
The sense meaning a brand is especially associated with British and European automotive usage. In American English, the canopy sense is also common, though the pronunciation may differ.
Easily confused with marque
A marque is a canopy or a vehicle brand, whereas a marquee is a large tent or a prominent sign advertising a business or event.
A marque is a canopy or brand name, while a marquis is a nobleman ranking below an earl.