The title "esquire", abbreviated Esq., in the United Kingdom has a long and complex history, dating back to medieval times. Originally, an "esquire" referred to a young man who was training to become a knight. Later on, it came to be used as a term of respect for members of the gentry, a social class below the nobility but above the common people. In the 16th century, the term "esquire" took on a more specific meaning in England. It became a title that was use