Definition

Proper noun * Charles the Great: The historical figure and title referring to Charlemagne, King of the Franks and Lombards, and the first Holy Roman Emperor. He is renowned for uniting much of Western Europe during the Early Middle Ages and for his patronage of learning, known as the Carolingian Renaissance.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Charles the Great was crowned Emperor of the Romans on Christmas Day in the year 800.
  • The military campaigns of Charles the Great significantly expanded the Frankish kingdom.
  • Many legends surround the reign of Charles the Great.

Advanced Usage

• "The Age of Charles the Great": A period referring to his reign and its cultural impact.
  • Scholars often study the art and manuscripts from the Age of Charles the Great.
• Used as a definitive epithet to distinguish this specific Charles from others.
  • In European history, Charles the Great is a far more significant figure than Charles the Bald.

Variants and Related Words

• Charlemagne (Proper noun): The more common name and direct equivalent for Charles the Great, derived from the Latin .
  • The empire of Charlemagne did not long survive his death.
• Carolingian (Adjective): Pertaining to the dynasty founded by Charles the Great.
  • Carolingian minuscule was a clear script developed during his reign.

Synonyms

• Charlemagne: The direct synonym.
• Carolus Magnus: The Latin form of the name.

Related Phrases

• Holy Roman Emperor: One of the primary titles held by Charles the Great after his coronation.
• King of the Franks: His title before becoming emperor.

Noun

1. king of the Franks and Holy Roman Emperor; conqueror of the Lombards and Saxons (742-814)