duchess

1 of 2

noun (1)

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

duchesse

2 of 2

noun (2)

du·​chesse

(ˈ)d(y)ü¦shes

plural -s

1

: a chaise longue with arms that was popular in 18th century France

2

or less commonly duchess : a fine lustrous rayon or silk satin for clothing

3

: a very small cream puff with sweet or savory filling used as dessert or served with cocktails

Examples of duchess in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Netflix publicists are preparing themselves for the fact that the upcoming junket, press conference and media line, all scheduled for next week, will probably be dominated by the duchess. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026

The duchess and Harry have two children, Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie. — Tim Lammers, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

The duchess styled her platinum blonde lob in an airy low updo with a deep side part, showing off a pair of classic gold hoop earrings. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 19 Aug. 2026

That followed the 2020 decision by Harry and Meghan, the duke and duchess of Sussex, to step down from their roles as senior members of the royal family. — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

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

Noun (2)

French, literally, duchess

First Known Use

Noun (1)

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