duchy
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A family living in one of the Build-to-Rent homes, Jess and Nick Dunstan, said they were "really lucky" to have the chance to rent from the duchy.
From BBC • May 21, 2026
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
In this competition, Philip understood that wine, with the trade revenue and prestige it brought to him and his duchy, was a most valuable currency.
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
No one, not even Mother, crossed her in the duchy of her kitchen.
From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
