Definition

Noun: - The sovereign ruler of England: This term specifically refers to the male monarch who holds the supreme authority and title as the ruler of the Kingdom of Great Britain. Historically, this title came into use following the union of England and Scotland in 1707.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • George III was the king of Great Britain during the American Revolution.
  • The title king of Great Britain signifies the head of state of the united kingdom.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term is often used in historical discourse to refer to monarchs from the early 18th century onwards, distinguishing them from earlier rulers who were "King of England" or "King of Scots."
  • The Act of Union in 1707 created the new title of king of Great Britain for Queen Anne and her successors.

Variants and Related Words

• Monarch of Great Britain: A more formal or generic term for the sovereign, which can also refer to a queen.
• British monarch: A common modern term for the sovereign of the United Kingdom.
• King of England: The historical title for the male ruler of England prior to the 1707 union.

Synonyms

• Sovereign: The supreme ruler, especially a monarch.
• Crown: The monarchy or the reigning monarch.
• Monarch: A sovereign head of state, especially a king, queen, or emperor.

Related Phrases

• To ascend the throne: To become king or queen.
  • He ascended the throne as king of Great Britain in 1760.
• To reign over: To rule as a monarch.
  • She reigned over Great Britain for over six decades.

Related Idioms

• Wear the crown: To be the monarch; to bear the responsibilities of sovereignty.
  • Wearing the crown of Great Britain was a heavy burden.
• The power behind the throne: A person who exerts great influence over a monarch without formally holding the title.
  • Many believed the prime minister was the real power behind the throne of the king of Great Britain.

Noun

1. the sovereign ruler of England