plural duchies
1
: the territory of a duke or duchess : dukedom
2
: special domain

Examples of duchy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Anne of Cleves, sister to the duke of a German duchy, emerged as a promising candidate. Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Mar. 2025 Even in an era of kingdoms and duchies, nobody could afford a Bugatti Royale. Raphael Orlove, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025 Some are now demanding the royals reimburse the NHS — and even ditch the duchies altogether. Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 5 Nov. 2024 The outlet said that the duchies earned about $65 million last year, with the Duchy of Lancaster driving about $35 million for the King and the Duchy of Cornwall making about $30 million for William. Janine Henni, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for duchy

Word History

Etymology

Middle English duche, from Anglo-French duché, from duc

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of duchy was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Duchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/duchy. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

duchy

noun
plural duchies
: the territory of a duke or duchess

More from Merriam-Webster on duchy

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