Ritter is a designation used as a title of nobility in German-speaking areas. Traditionally it denotes the second-lowest rank within the nobility, standing above "Edler" and below "Freiherr" (Baron). For its historical association with warfare and the landed gentry in the Middle Ages, it can be considered roughly equal to the titles of "Knight", but is hereditary so is closer to the British title of "Baronet". The wife of a Ritter was called a "Frau" and not Ritterin.
