# duchy

/ˈdətʃi/ (US) · /dˈʌtʃi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/duchy
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a large area of land that belongs to a duke. It is a high rank in some countries, like the UK, and the land is usually ruled by the duke.

For teachers: a territory or estate belonging to a duke, typically a high-ranking noble title in the British peerage system.

## Examples

- The duke lives in his large duchy.
- The historical duchy was divided into several smaller counties after the king decided to change the borders.
- While the title of duke is largely symbolic in modern constitutional monarchies, the duchy still holds significant land and property rights that generate substantial income for the holder.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.