Dukedom: meaning, definitions and examples

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dukedom

 

[ ˈdjuːk.dəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

nobility title

A dukedom is a territory or domain ruled by a duke or duchess. It represents a high rank within the British nobility, traditionally one of the highest titles that can be granted to a member of the peerage. Dukedoms are often associated with significant land holdings and influence. They can be hereditary, passed down through generations, or created by royal decree.

Synonyms

duchy, realm

Examples of usage

  • The dukedom of Cornwall is one of the oldest in England.
  • She aspired to inherit the dukedom from her father.
  • The newly appointed duke was celebrated across the dukedom.

Translations

Translations of the word "dukedom" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ducado

🇮🇳 डुकडम

🇩🇪 Herzogtum

🇮🇩 dukeship

🇺🇦 герцогство

🇵🇱 księstwo

🇯🇵 公国

🇫🇷 duché

🇪🇸 ducado

🇹🇷 dükalığı

🇰🇷 공작국

🇸🇦 دوقية

🇨🇿 vévodství

🇸🇰 džudstvo

🇨🇳 公爵领地

🇸🇮 vojvodstvo

🇮🇸 hertogdómur

🇰🇿 герцогтық

🇬🇪 ჰერცოგობა

🇦🇿 dükalığı

🇲🇽 ducado

Word origin

The term 'dukedom' originates from the Old French word 'due', which means 'duke' and is derived from the Latin 'dux', meaning 'leader' or 'general'. The title of duke became prominent in the medieval period, particularly in Europe, as nobility began to emerge as a distinct social class. Dukes were often granted vast lands and significant power in return for their loyalty and service to the crown. The combination of the 'duke' title with 'dom' (from Old English 'dom', meaning 'domain' or 'realm') emphasizes the territorial aspect of the rank. Over time, dukedoms became closely associated with certain areas or regions, leading to the establishment of both noble titles and specific geographic identities in countries such as England and France.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,499 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.