duty

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Something you have to do because it is right or because the law or your job requires it.

   It is your duty to report a crime if you witness one.

2. 2
   noun

   The state of being at work and responsible for a task.

   The nurse is on duty from six in the evening until six in the morning.

3. 3
   noun

   A tax that you pay on goods, especially those brought into a country.

   You may have to pay duty on items bought abroad.

From Middle English duete, from Middle English dewe + Middle English -te. Equivalent to due + -ty.

Topics