dukes
|dukes|
🇺🇸
/duːks/
🇬🇧
/djuːks/
(duke)
noble rank
Etymology
'duke' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'dux' (genitive 'ducis'), where the root meant 'leader' or 'commander'.
'duke' changed from Latin 'dux' into Old French 'duc' and then entered Middle English as 'duk', eventually becoming the modern English word 'duke'.
Initially, it meant 'leader' or 'commander' (in a general sense); over time it evolved into a specific noble rank, the modern meaning 'duke'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'duke': a male noble of the highest hereditary rank below a monarch.
The dukes attended the state ceremony.
Synonyms
Noun 2
(informal) one's fists; used in phrases referring to fighting with the hands.
He put up his dukes when the stranger shoved him.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
third person singular present form of 'duke': (informal) to fight (often with fists) or to contend.
He often dukes it out with rivals at the gym.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/08 14:26