Duke: meaning, definitions and examples

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duke

 

[ djuหk ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

noble title

A duke is a high-ranking nobleman in various European countries, often holding land and a title granted by a monarch. Historically, dukes were among the highest ranks of nobility, just below that of a prince. They typically governed large areas of land and were often involved in the military and politics.

Synonyms

aristocrat, lord, nobleman

Examples of usage

  • The Duke of Edinburgh attended the ceremony.
  • She married into one of the oldest duke families.
  • The duke was known for his lavish parties.
Context #2 | Verb

to confer title

To duke can mean to give someone the title of duke or to raise them in rank among nobility. This usage is less common but signifies a ceremonial bestowal of this noble title.

Synonyms

elevate, ennoble

Examples of usage

  • The king decided to duke him for his bravery.
  • They will duke the new heir during the coronation.
  • After his achievements, he was duked by the royal family.

Translations

Translations of the word "duke" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น duque

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคกเฅเคฏเฅ‚เค•

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Herzog

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ duke

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะณะตั€ั†ะพะณ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ ksiฤ…ลผฤ™

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅ…ฌ็ˆต (ใ“ใ†ใ—ใ‚ƒใ)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท duc

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ duque

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท dรผk

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ณต์ž‘ (๊ณต์ž‘)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฏูˆู‚ (ุฏูˆู‚)

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ vรฉvoda

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ d Duke

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅ…ฌ็ˆต (gลngjuรฉ)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ vojvoda

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ hertogi

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะณะตั€ั†ะพะณ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒแƒ แƒ™แƒ˜แƒ–แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ dรผk

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ duque

Word origin

The word 'duke' comes from the Latin 'dux', meaning 'leader' or 'general'. This term evolved through the medieval period as it began to signify a notable title of nobility. In the 14th century, the title became officially used in England, with the first duke being Edward, the Black Prince, who was created Duke of Cornwall in 1337. The title 'duke' was borrowed into English from Old French 'duc', which directly translated from Latin, emphasizing its noble status. Traditionally, dukes often ruled over vast territories and held significant power, making the title one of the most prestigious in the European hierarchical system. The title has persisted through the centuries, becoming associated with hereditary privilege and elevated social status.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,771 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.