lieutenancy

[ loo-ten-uhn-see ]

noun

, plural lieu·ten·an·cies.

1. the office, authority, incumbency, or jurisdiction of a lieutenant.
2. lieutenants collectively.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lieutenancy¹

First recorded in 1400–50, lieutenancy is from the late Middle English word lieutenauncie. See lieutenant, -ancy

Example Sentences

He received a lieutenancy before the company entered its first engagement even.

From Literature

For administrative purposes, Yorkshire was divided into three county councils as far back as 1888, and each of its ridings had been governed by separate lieutenancies since the Restoration.

From BBC

Get madame to assign that part to me, and the lieutenancy is yours.'

From Project Gutenberg

Later, Lord Cochrane, when promoted to a lieutenancy, was dining with Admiral Vandepat, and being seated near him, was asked what dish was before him.

From Project Gutenberg

His services in Parliament, his lord lieutenancy of Ireland, his achievements on different embassies, and as Secretary of State were of value to his country.

From Project Gutenberg