duchess

noun

duch·​ess ˈdə-chəs 

1

: the wife or widow of a duke

2

: a woman who holds the rank of duke in her own right

Examples of duchess in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In May, Meghan and Harry marked their eighth wedding anniversary, with the duchess posting a string of photos to Instagram, providing an intimate look back at their union at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, on May 19, 2018. — Jennifer Hassan, USA Today, 22 June 2026

While Elizabeth inherited the tiara from her grandmother, Queen Mary, it was originally created for a Romanov duchess. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 19 June 2026

While the duchess opted to personalize her version with cobalt blue letters on a navy body, shoppers can choose from three additional sizes and 14 additional colors — plus up to three letters — to craft their ideal bag. — Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 11 June 2026

Earlier in the day, the duchess used a post to wish her son Archie on his seventh birthday. — Alessia Arcolaci, Vanity Fair, 18 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English duchesse, from Anglo-French, from duc duke

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing duchess

• grand duchess

Rhymes for duchess

• duchesse
• archduchess

Kids Definition

duchess

noun

duch·​ess ˈdəch-əs 

1

: the wife or widow of a duke

2

: a woman holding the rank of duke in her own right