grand duke
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grand duke
A noble title for a sovereign prince who ranks between a king and an ordinary duke. Also the person who holds this title.
Der Großherzog von Luxemburg ist das Staatsoberhaupt des Landes.
The Grand Duke of Luxembourg is the country's head of state.
The word is built simply: it combines 'groß' (great) and 'Herzog' (duke). The prefix 'Groß-' indicates a higher rank here, similar to 'Großmeister' (grand master) or 'Großstadt' (large city).
Ein Herzog regiert über ein Herzogtum.
A duke rules over a duchy.
The title 'Großherzog' (grand duke) is almost always used with the preposition 'von' (of/from) and the name of the territory over which he rules.
Der aktuelle Großherzog von Luxemburg heißt Henri.
The current Grand Duke of Luxembourg is named Henri.
Although it is a historical title, it is still relevant today. The best-known example is Luxembourg, the only remaining grand duchy in the world.
Die Familie des Großherzogs lebt im Palast.
The grand duke's family lives in the palace.
duke
Herzog and Großherzog are high noble titles, but they do not denote the same rank. A Großherzog ranks above an ordinary duke and below a king. Which word is appropriate therefore depends on the historical person's actual title.
Nach dem Tod seines Vaters wurde Karl zum Großherzog ernannt.
After his father's death, Karl was appointed grand duke.
Nach dem Tod seines Vaters wurde Karl zum Herzog ernannt.
After his father's death, Karl was appointed duke.
