duchy

American  

[duhch-ee] / ˈdʌtʃ i /

noun

plural

duchies

1. the territory ruled by a duke or duchess.

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duchy British  

/ ˈdʌtʃɪ /

noun

1. the territory of a duke or duchess; dukedom

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Etymology

Origin of duchy

1350–1400; Middle English duche < Middle French duche; Anglo-French, Old French duchié < Medieval Latin ducātus; Late Latin, Latin: the rank or functions of a dux; see duke, -ate ³

Explanation

If you are a duke or a duchess, the country or territory you rule is called a duchy. England's Prince Charles is the current Duke of Cornwall and symbolically reigns over a duchy that includes Cornwall and the surrounding area. The term duchy is mainly historical and almost always refers to European territories. Over the years, many dukes and duchesses have ruled over duchies, while others have maintained honorary titles without any real power. Grand duchies were small, sovereign countries ruled by a grand duke or grand duchess. Today, the only remaining grand duchy is Luxembourg, symbolically ruled by Grand Duke Henri, who has limited governmental powers.

Example Sentences

Scatterings of Gamay survived in reduced form, with many of its vines exiled to Beaujolais, an area south of the duchy.

From Salon • Aug. 26, 2024

The prince's Duchy of Cornwall and Madley Primary have been partners in the "forest school" initiative for 12 years, with the duchy providing the outdoor learning site at Brampton Hill Wood.

From BBC • Sep. 14, 2023

A duchy is a territory traditionally governed by a duke or duchess.

From New York Times • Jul. 18, 2023

In 911, they settled in northern France, establishing the duchy of Normandy.

From Textbooks • Apr. 19, 2023

No one, not even Mother, crossed her in the duchy of her kitchen.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly