duchess

Everyday

1. A duchess is a woman who is married to a duke, or a woman who holds the rank of duke herself. tree →
2. (informal, UK) "Duchess" is sometimes a friendly or teasing way to speak to a woman, especially one who seems grand. tree →

In the lessons

Used in news about the royal family (for example the Duchess of Cambridge or the Duchess of Sussex), in history, and in fairy tales. It tells the reader the woman has a very high rank. Phrases: «the Duke and Duchess», «Duchess of …», «Your Grace».

Examples

• The Duchess visited a children's hospital. tree →
• The Duke and Duchess waved to the crowd. tree →
• In the story the duchess wore a dress covered in jewels. tree →
• A duchess is addressed as "Your Grace". tree →
• The duchess opened the new library. tree →
• "Mind your step, Duchess," joked the bus driver. tree →
• Meanwhile the Duchess Grumbly was also occupied in attiring herself. tree →

Note

Countable noun; plural duchesses. Capital D in titles. Male form: duke. Her lands: a duchy. Spelling: ends in -ess like «princess».