duchy

[ duhch-ee ]

noun

, plural duch·ies.

1. the territory ruled by a duke or duchess.

duchy

/ ˈdʌtʃɪ /

noun

1. the territory of a duke or duchess; dukedom

Word History and Origins

Origin of duchy¹

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; duke, -ate ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of duchy¹

C14: from Old French duche, from duc duke

Example Sentences

A tribute to Mr Tindal-Draper has also been paid by Duchy College, where he had been part of its Military and Protective Services Academy.

From BBC

They said that the duchy "delegates certain functions, particularly those regarding asset management, to the Duchy Council" and while the King "takes a close interest" in the work of the duchy, day-to-day management of the portfolio is the responsibility of the council and executive team.

From BBC

A spokesperson for the Duchy of Lancaster, the private estate of King Charles, said it "complies with all relevant UK legislation and regulatory standards applicable to its range of business activities".

From BBC

The Duchy of Lancaster, established in 1399, and Prince William's Duchy of Cornwall, established in 1337, both hold large amounts of land and commercial property in England and Wales.

From BBC

Their contracts with public bodies are said to include a £37 million agreement between the Duchy of Cornwall and the Ministry of Justice to lease Dartmoor Prison, and a £11.4 million deal between Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust and the Duchy of Lancaster to rent a London warehouse over 15 years.

From BBC