archduke
(ˈɑːtʃˈdjuːk, ˈɑːtʃˌdjuːk: see arch-)
[a. OF. archeduc, now archiduc:—Merovingian L. archidūc-em, c 750: see arch- 1 and duke.]
The chief duke: formerly title of the rulers of Austrasia, Lorraine, Brabant, and Austria, being assumed by those of Austria in 1359; now titular dignity of sons of the Emperor of Austria.
| 1530 Palsgr. 195/1 Archeduke, archeduc. 1602 Carew Cornwall (J.) Philip, archduke of Austria..was weather-driven into Weymouth. 1800 Coleridge Own Times II. 353 Attempts are made at Vienna, to reconcile the Archduke and Suwarrow. |