Definition

Proper noun 1. A royal title: The title traditionally held by the wife of the heir apparent to the British throne, who holds the title Prince of Wales. 2. A specific historical person: Diana, Princess of Wales (born Diana Frances Spencer; 1961-1997), the first wife of Charles, Prince of Wales (later King Charles III). She was renowned for her charity work and public popularity.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Title):

  • The role of the Princess of Wales involves supporting various charitable causes.
  • She was formally styled Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales after the wedding.

• Proper noun (Specific Person):

  • The Princess of Wales captivated the world with her humanitarian efforts.
  • Many biographies have been written about the life of the Princess of Wales.

Advanced Usage

• "The People's Princess": A term of endearment and respect famously used to describe Diana, Princess of Wales, highlighting her connection with the public.
  • Following her death, the "People's Princess" was mourned globally.

Variants and Related Words

• Princess of Wales's: The possessive form.

  • The Princess of Wales's patronage helped raise awareness for landmine clearance.

• Princess Diana / Lady Diana Spencer: Common alternative names for the specific person, Diana, Princess of Wales.

• The Duchess of Cornwall: The title held by Camilla Parker Bowles during her marriage to Charles, Prince of Wales, before she became Queen Consort. This is a distinct title from Princess of Wales.

Synonyms

• Royal consort (for the titular role): A general term for the spouse of a monarch or heir.
• The late Diana, Princess of Wales (for the specific person): A formal reference used after her death.

Related Phrases

• The Princess of Wales effect: A cultural phenomenon where public interest and sales increase for items associated with or worn by the Princess of Wales.
  • That style of handbag sold out due to the Princess of Wales effect.

Noun

1. English aristocrat who was the first wife of Prince Charles; her death in an automobile accident in Paris produced intense national mourning (1961-1997)