Definition

Proper noun - Historical figure: William II of England, also known as William Rufus, was the King of England from 1087 until his death in 1100. He was the third son of William the Conqueror.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • William Rufus was known for his red-faced appearance, which earned him his nickname 'Rufus'.
  • The reign of William Rufus was marked by conflicts with the church and the nobility.
  • Historians often debate the circumstances surrounding the death of William Rufus in the New Forest.

Advanced Usage

• "The Rufus Stone": A monument in the New Forest, England, marking the traditional spot where King William Rufus was killed by an arrow.
  • Tourists can visit the Rufus Stone, which commemorates the death of William Rufus.

Variants and Related Words

• William II: The regnal name for William Rufus.
  • William II's fiscal policies were often considered harsh.

Synonyms

• William the Red: An alternative English translation of his nickname "Rufus".
• King William II: His formal title.

Related Phrases

• The New Forest incident: A phrase often used to refer to the mysterious death of William Rufus.
  • The New Forest incident of 1100 remains a topic of historical speculation.

Noun

1. the second son of William the Conqueror who succeeded him as King of England (1056-1100)