Definition

1. Noun:
   • A nobleman of high rank: A "duke" is a male member of the highest rank of the British nobility or of the nobility in various other countries.
   • A British peer of the highest rank: In the United Kingdom, a "duke" is a hereditary title of the highest rank below the monarch.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Duke of Edinburgh was a well-known figure.
  • Several European countries have historic duchies ruled by a duke.

Advanced Usage

• "To duke it out" (slang): To fight or compete aggressively until a winner is decided.
  • The two boxers will duke it out for the championship title.
• "To duke someone" (archaic slang): To hit or strike someone with the fist.
  • He threatened to duke the man if he didn't leave.

Variants and Related Words

• Duchy (n): The territory ruled by a duke or duchess.
  • The Duchy of Cornwall provides an income for the heir to the British throne.
• Duchess (n): The wife of a duke or a woman who holds the rank of duke in her own right.
  • The Duchess greeted the guests warmly.

Synonyms

• Peer: A member of the nobility in Britain.
• Aristocrat: A person of noble birth or high rank.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs/Idioms)

• "Put up your dukes" (idiom, informal): A challenge to fight, meaning to raise your fists.
  • The angry boy shouted, "Put up your dukes!"
• "Dukes up" (phrase): Ready to fight with fists.
  • When the argument got heated, it was dukes up.

Noun

1. a nobleman (in various countries) of high rank
2. a British peer of the highest rank