Definition

1. Noun:
   • A male heir apparent to a throne: A "crown prince" is the male heir who is first in line to inherit the throne from a reigning monarch, such as a king or emperor. His position is typically established by law or tradition.

Usage

• The term is used as a title and a common noun to refer to the immediate male successor to a sovereign.
• It is often capitalized when used as a specific title preceding a name (e.g., Crown Prince William).
• It specifically denotes the heir apparent, meaning his right to inherit cannot be displaced by the birth of another heir, unlike an heir presumptive.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The crown prince attended the diplomatic summit on behalf of his father, the king.
  • After the king's abdication, the crown prince was crowned the new monarch.
  • The role of a crown prince involves extensive preparation for future duties.

Advanced Usage

• "Crown princess": While not a variant of "crown prince," it is the corresponding term for a female heir apparent or the wife of a crown prince.
  • The crown princess will undertake the royal tour next month.

Variants and Related Words

• Heir apparent: A person who is first in line to inherit a title or office and whose right cannot be superseded. This is a more general term of which "crown prince" is a specific type.
• Prince regent: A prince who rules a monarchy because the monarch is a minor, absent, or incapacitated. This is a different role, though a crown prince might sometimes serve as regent.

Synonyms

• Heir to the throne: A general phrase for the person next in line to become monarch.
• Successor: A person who succeeds another to an office or title.

Related Phrases

• "Heir presumptive": A person who is first in line to inherit but whose right can be displaced by the birth of a more eligible heir (e.g., a younger brother). This contrasts with the typically secure position of a crown prince.

Noun

1. a male heir apparent to a throne