What to Call Kate?

By Mike Krumboltz mike Krumboltz – Wed Nov 17, 5:35 pm ET

Kate Middleton's engagement to Prince William has sparked an avalanche of Web interest. Top of mind now -- what will Kate's new title be? Is she in line to be queen? And how does Prince Harry figure into all this?
Figuring all this out can be a royal pain, so we did the legwork for you. Here's a quick summary of everything you ever wanted to know about royal marriages but were too common to ask.
Kate's titleOnce married, Kate Middleton will unofficially become "Princess Catherine." The official title will likely be Her Royal Highness Catherine of Wales. Eventually, after many years and barring any unforeseen tragedy or divorce, she and William will become the Queen and King of England. But! She won't have that title until her father-in-law to-be, Prince Charles of Wales, has had his turn.
The future Queen?Kate being queen is a ways away. In the meantime, she and William will likely earn an honorary title after marrying. An article from People magazine speculates that some possible titles include the "dukedoms of Clarence, Cambridge and Sussex." These titles are "eminently suitable" for the couple. Why? HowStuffWorks explains that the titles of Duke and Duchess are among the highest order of nobility. If things go according to plan, eventually she will be the Queen. First, though, the title of duchess is most likely.
Who decides on the titles? The Queen does, who else? An excellent article from the Sydney Morning Herald explains that if "the Prince surprises all and turns down a title, Kate would become HRH (Her Royal Highness) Princess William of Wales or Princess Catherine or Kate of Wales." Again, though, this is highly unlikely. When Prince Charles becomes king, it is believed that he will name William Prince of Wales, thus making Kate the Princess of Wales. Confused yet?
What about Harry?Prince William's younger brother Harry is also in line to be King of England, but he is behind William. So, if and when he does marry, he won't be able to promise his bride-to-be the lofty title of queen. Sigh, the perils of being the younger brother. Still, we imagine that Harry is pleased to remain a prince. After all, it's a pretty sweet life. And as for what title Prince Harry's future wife will have, that's anybody's guess.
What about Prince Philip?If your entire sum knowledge of royal lineage comes from "King Ralph," you might not understand why the Queen's husband, Prince Philip is not the King. Some online sources explain that this "the husband of a female monarch does not have any recognized special status, rank, or privileges." However, other sources argue that if the Queen wanted to appoint Philip as King she could. Sheesh, and we thought "Lost" was confusing.