The term DUKES can be broken down into three crossword solutions: MITTS (5 letters), FISTS (5 letters), and WELLINGTONANDELLINGTON (22 letters). MITTS are a type of glove that covers the entire hand, including the fingers and thumb. FISTS are a type of closed hand gesture, usually used to express anger or strength. WELLINGTONANDELLINGTON is a reference to the Duke of Wellington and the Duke of Elllington, two prominent figures in British history. The Duke of Wellington was an influential military leader who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1828 to 1830. The Duke of Elllington was a politician and statesman who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1806 to 1807.