Ducatus

/duːˈkɑːtəs/ noun

Definition

A Latin term for a duchy or the domain ruled by a duke; also used in medieval legal documents to denote a territorial unit of governance.

Etymology

Latin form from 'dux' (leader/duke), using the Latin nominative case ending -us, commonly used in medieval charters and official documents.

Kelly Says

Reading a medieval land grant that says 'in the ducatus of...' shows how Latin stayed the language of power and authority long after it ceased being anyone's native tongue!

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