duchies
|duch-ies|
/ˈdʌtʃiz/
(duchy)
territory ruled by a duke
Etymology
'duchy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'duché' (also spelled 'duchie'), ultimately from Medieval Latin 'ducatus', where the Latin root 'dux' meant 'leader'.
'dux' (Latin) → 'ducatus' (Medieval Latin) → Old French 'duché' (or 'duchie') → Middle English 'duchie' → modern English 'duchy' (plural 'duchies').
Initially, it referred to the rule or office of a leader ('ducatus' = the command or jurisdiction of a duke); over time it came to denote specifically the territory or domain ruled by a duke (modern 'duchy').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
territories or lands ruled by a duke or duchess; a dukedom (historical or feudal political unit).
Several small duchies existed in that region before the country was unified.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the territorial possessions, estates, or jurisdiction associated with a duke's title (emphasizing property/estate aspect).
The duke's revenues from his duchies supported his household and court.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/08 12:38