Graf

Graf is a historical title of the German nobility, usually translated as "count". It is often treated as equivalent to the British title of "earl" (whose female version is "countess"). Graf is not a first or middle name, but connected with the surname, for example Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin, not Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin. The female form is Gräfin.

The Germans call a Count, Graf, which properly signifies a judge. A continental Count ranked between a Duke and a Baron, a title equivalent to an English Earl. The Counts, being persons well skilled in the laws, were made governors in several parts of the Empire. Hence is accounted the origin of the several dignities existing by the 19th Century among the German Princes ; viz. of Landgrave, Burgrave, Margrave, and Paltzgrave.

Graf can also be a common German surname as in Stefanie "Steffi" Maria Graf, the famous German tennis player.