Definition

Proper noun: * The London residence of the British sovereign: Buckingham Palace is the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. It is also a major site for state occasions and royal hospitality.

Usage

Buckingham Palace is used as a specific, singular proper noun referring to the building and institution. It is typically preceded by the definite article 'the'.

Examples

• As a subject:
  • Buckingham Palace is one of the most famous buildings in the world.
  • The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a popular tourist attraction.
• As an object:
  • The King will host the diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace.
  • Tourists often gather outside Buckingham Palace to see the royal family.
• Showing possession/location:
  • The Buckingham Palace staff are highly professional.
  • Important state banquets are held in Buckingham Palace.

Advanced Usage

• Metonymy: The name is often used metonymically to represent the British monarchy or the royal institution itself.
  • Buckingham Palace has issued a statement on the matter. (Meaning: the official communications office of the monarch)
  • The decision ultimately came from Buckingham Palace. (Meaning: the monarch and/or senior royal advisors)

Variants and Related Words

• The Palace: A common shorthand used in British media and conversation to refer to Buckingham Palace specifically, especially when discussing official royal communications or decisions.
  • According to the Palace, the event will proceed as planned.
• Royal residence: A general term for any official home of a monarch, of which Buckingham Palace is the primary example in the UK. Others include Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Synonyms

• The sovereign's London residence (formal/descriptive synonym)
• The King's/Queen's official London home (descriptive phrase)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "A Buckingham Palace garden party": Refers to one of the large, formal garden parties held at the Palace during the summer, to which guests are invited from various public sectors. It is often used figuratively to describe a very prestigious or exclusive social event.
  • Getting an invitation felt like being asked to a Buckingham Palace garden party.

Noun

1. the London residence of the British sovereign