Basic Details
Word: Duchess
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A woman who holds the title of nobility, typically the wife of a duke or a woman who rules a duchy.
Synonyms: Noblewoman, Aristocrat
Antonyms: Commoner, Peasant
Idioms and Phrases
- As rich as a duchess: Used to describe someone who is very wealthy. Example: "After winning the lottery, he felt as rich as a duchess."
- Like a duchess in a ball gown: To behave or appear elegantly and gracefully. Example: "She walked into the room like a duchess in a ball gown, capturing everyone's attention."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The duchess hosted a grand tea party at her palace, inviting all the local dignitaries.
Example 2: Everyone admired the duchess's beautiful gown as she entered the ballroom.
Example 3: Historical tales often tell of the adventures of a young duchess who defied tradition.
Fun Fact
The title of 'Duchess' has its origins in France, deriving from the Latin word "ducus," meaning leader. It was first used in the Middle Ages to signify the female counterpart of a duke.
Famous Quote
"A duchess is as she seems; she feels her place in the order of society." - Honor de Balzac
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "duchess" mean?
a) A type of fruit
b) A woman of nobility
c) A commoner
d) A military leader
Answer: b) A woman of nobility
2. Which of these is a synonym of "duchess"?
a) Peasant
b) Noblewoman
c) Farmer
d) Merchant
Answer: b) Noblewoman
3. Which sentence uses "duchess" correctly?
a) The duchess danced beautifully at the royal ball.
b) The duchess cooked dinner for the villagers.
c) The duchess ran a marathon last weekend.
d) The duchess painted a picture of the sea.
Answer: a) The duchess danced beautifully at the royal ball.
4. Which idiom means the same as "duchess"?
a) As rich as a duchess
b) As busy as a bee
c) Like a fish out of water
d) A leopard can't change its spots
Answer: a) As rich as a duchess
5. What is the opposite of "duchess"?
a) Commoner
b) Baroness
c) Queen
d) Countess
Answer: a) Commoner
