Duke
/djuːk/
Definitions
2 meaningsA nobleman of the highest rank, typically ruling a duchy (a territory governed by a duke or duchess).
/djuːk/
A male holding the highest hereditary title below that of a prince.
The duke held a grand ball at his estate.
💡 Simply: Imagine a really important person with a fancy title, like the boss of a big castle. They're called a duke! It's like being a king or queen's right-hand man.
👶 For kids: A duke is a very important man who is like a prince but not a king.
More Examples
The duchess inherited the title after her husband's death.
The king appointed a new duke to rule the northern territories.
How It's Used
"The Duke of Wellington was a prominent figure in British history."
"The Queen's son was granted the title of Duke."
An informal and sometimes humorous term for a man.
/djuːk/
Used humorously to refer to a man.
Come on, you old duke!
💡 Simply: If you're chatting with your friends and want to call a guy something a bit funny, you could say, 'Hey, that's a good duke!'
👶 For kids: Sometimes, 'duke' means a regular guy, like your dad or a friend.
More Examples
He was a fine duke.
He's a good duke to have on your team.
How It's Used
"He's a good old duke."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
to live like a duke
To live in luxury and opulence.
"They're living like a duke with their mansion and private jet."
From Old French *duc*, from Latin *dux* ('leader'). Originally a military title, later becoming a title of nobility.
The title 'duke' dates back to the Middle Ages, with the title evolving over time from a military leader to a hereditary noble.
Memory tip
Think of a powerful leader in a kingdom, often a ruler or holding significant authority. "D" for dominant!
Word Origin
"leader"