The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word MARQUISES
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The cryptic/wordplay part
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What does MARQUISES mean?
MARQUISES noun- A nobleman in England, France, and Germany, of a rank next below that of duke, but above a count. Originally, the marquis was an officer whose duty was to guard the marches or frontiers of the kingdom. The office has ceased, and the name is now a mere title conferred by letters patent or letters close.
- Any of various nymphalid butterflies of the Asian genus Bassarona.
- A marchioness, especially one who is French.
- A marquee.
- (jewelry) An oval cut diamond with pointed ends.
- A canopy, usually of glass, set as a shelter over a door opening onto a terrace or pavement.
- A style of parasol of the mid-19th century.
- A rich dessert made with dark chocolate, butter, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs and cream.