Definition of "douzaine"

If the eldest son will not accept the valuation set upon it by the town Douzaine, then it will be successively offered to the sons and daughters in rotation, according to seniority […]

1841, Peter Jeremie, An Essay on the Laws of Real Property in Guernsey, Guernsey

The douzaines of Guernsey, since the year 1844, are represented in the states by deputies, who are delegates rather than representatives.

1862, David Thomas Ansted, The Channel Islands

There is a parish council called the Douzaine, which, as its name suggests, consists of twelve members.

1979, Raoul Lemprière, Portrait of the Channel Islands

At a parish meeting held last night, dean of the douzaine Nick Dorey said that although some of the cars had been removed, it would be a lot easier with legal parking restrictions put in place.

2012 April 26, The Guernsey Press