duchy
|du-chy|
C1
/ˈdʌtʃ.i/
territory ruled by a duke
Etymology
Etymology Information
'duchy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'duché', where the element 'duc-' (from Latin 'dux') meant 'leader' or 'commander'.
Historical Evolution
'duchy' changed from Medieval Latin 'ducatus' and Old French 'duché' and eventually became the modern English word 'duchy' via Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially it referred to the office or territory associated with a duke ('leader'), and over time it retained this sense as the name for the territory or the rank itself.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a territory, domain, or area ruled by a duke or duchess; also the rank, office, or dignity of a duke.
The duchy was passed to the duke's heir.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/04 03:24