imperator

The Roman imperator stands before his troops.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A commander in chief: In ancient Rome, "imperator" was a title originally given to a general who had achieved a significant victory and was acclaimed by his troops.
   • An emperor: Later, during the Roman Empire, "imperator" became a formal title for the supreme ruler, equivalent to "emperor."

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • After his decisive victory in Gaul, the soldiers hailed Julius Caesar as imperator. (They acclaimed him as their commander in chief.)
  • Augustus was the first Roman ruler to use imperator as a permanent title. (He used it to signify his authority as emperor.)

Advanced Usage

• "Imperator" in historical context: The term is often used in academic writing to refer specifically to Roman military and imperial titles.

  • The title imperator was granted to victorious generals by the Senate. (It was an official honorific.)

• "Imperator" in modern usage: Occasionally used metaphorically to describe a powerful leader or dictator.

  • The CEO acted like an imperator, commanding absolute obedience from his employees. (He behaved like a supreme ruler.)

Variants and Related Words

• Imperatorial (adj): relating to an imperator or emperor.

  • The imperatorial decree was issued from the palace. (The emperor's decree.)

• Imperium (n): supreme power or authority, especially in ancient Rome.

  • The consul held imperium over the army. (He had the legal authority to command.)

Synonyms

• Commander: a person in authority, especially over a military unit.
• Emperor: the sovereign ruler of an empire.
• General: a high-ranking military officer.

Related Idioms

• "To be hailed as imperator": to receive great acclaim for a victory or achievement.
  • The coach was hailed as imperator after winning the championship. (He was praised as a supreme leader.)