duke etymology

Etymology

The word "duke" comes from the Middle Latin word "dux", meaning "leader". This word is derived from the Latin word "ducere", meaning "to lead".

Meaning

A duke is a member of the highest rank of nobility, usually ranking below a king or queen and above a marquis. Dukes are often given titles based on their geographical location or their family name.

Origin

The title of duke was first used in the Roman Empire to refer to military leaders. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the title was adopted by Germanic tribes to refer to their tribal leaders. In the Middle Ages, the title of duke became increasingly common, and it was eventually adopted by monarchies throughout Europe.

Today, the title of duke is used in a number of countries around the world. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, it is a hereditary title that is passed down from father to son. In other countries, such as Spain, it is a non-hereditary title that is created by the monarch.

duke relate terms

• earl

  Etymology Old English eorl Proto Germanic erlaz Proto Indo European h₂ers n

• count

  Etymology The word count originates from the Old French word conte which itself deri

• archduke

  Etymology The word archduke is derived from the Latin word archidux which is a comb

• arch

  Etymology The word arch is derived from the Latin word arcus which means bow or

• duke

  Etymology The word duke comes from the Middle Latin word dux meaning leader This

• dukes

  Etymology The word duke comes from the Medieval Latin dux which itself is derived fr

• ducat

  Etymology Ducat stems from the Medieval Latin word ducatus which itself derives from t

• mirepoix

  Etymology and Meaning The word mirepoix is derived from the French phrase miroir poix

• Lancaster

  Etymology Lancaster is derived from two Old English words Lanca Spear Ceaster Roman

• marquis

  Etymology The word marquis has a long and complex etymological history derived from mu

• conquest

  Etymology French conquête Latin conquirere Old French conquerre Meaning Th

• appellation

  Etymology The word appellation comes from the Latin word appellare meaning to call

• peer

  Etymology The word peer comes from the Latin word par which means equal It was fi

• lord

  Etymology The word lord comes from the Old English word hlāford which is derived fr

• noble

  Etymology The English word noble comes from the Old French noble c 1080 which is