Definition

Proper noun * King Harold II: The last crowned Anglo-Saxon king of England, who reigned from January 1066 until his death in October of the same year. He succeeded Edward the Confessor and was killed at the Battle of Hastings fighting the invading Norman army led by William the Conqueror.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • King Harold II was crowned following the death of Edward the Confessor.
  • The reign of King Harold II was brief but pivotal in English history.
  • Many historians study the military decisions made by King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings.

Advanced Usage

• "Harold Godwinson": This is the personal name of King Harold II, often used to distinguish him from other historical figures named Harold. It identifies him by his patronymic, meaning "son of Godwin."
  • Harold Godwinson was a powerful earl before becoming king.
• The term is often used in the context of "the succession crisis of 1066," referring to the contested claim to the English throne after Edward the Confessor's death.
  • The claim of King Harold II was challenged by both William of Normandy and Harald Hardrada.

Variants and Related Words

• Harold II: A common shortened form of the royal title.
• Harold Godwinson: The name used prior to and identifying his lineage as king.
• The Last Anglo-Saxon King: A descriptive epithet frequently associated with him.

Synonyms

• (As a historical monarch): The last Anglo-Saxon king, Harold Godwinson.

Related Phrases and Contexts

• Battle of Hastings (1066): The famous battle where King Harold II was defeated and killed.
  • King Harold II famously died at the Battle of Hastings.
• Norman Conquest: The direct result of the battle, marking the end of his reign and Anglo-Saxon rule.
  • The death of King Harold II paved the way for the Norman Conquest.

Noun

1. King of England who succeeded Edward the Confessor in 1066 and was the last of the Anglo-Saxon monarchs; he was killed fighting the invasion by William the Conqueror (1045-1066)