regality

regality

A queen sits upon her throne with great regality.

Definition

  1. Noun (uncountable):

    • Royal power or authority: "regality" refers to the sovereignty, dominion, or supreme power associated with a monarch or king.
    • The state of being a king or queen: It denotes the status, dignity, or office of a royal ruler.

  2. Noun (countable, often plural regalities):

    • A royal privilege or prerogative: A specific right or exemption belonging exclusively to a monarch, such as the right to coin money or grant pardons.
    • A kingdom or realm: In historical or legal contexts, "regality" can mean a territory under royal jurisdiction.
Usage Examples

  • Uncountable:

    • The regality of the crown was undisputed in the ancient kingdom. (The king's supreme authority was unchallenged.)
    • He ruled with absolute regality, expecting total obedience from his subjects. (He exercised complete royal power.)

  • Countable:

    • The regality of minting coins was reserved for the monarch alone. (The exclusive royal right to produce currency.)
    • The regalities of the Scottish crown were fiercely defended by the nobility. (The specific privileges and prerogatives of the Scottish king.)
Advanced Usage

  • "in regality": in a state of royal authority or as a sovereign.

    • The prince acted in regality, issuing decrees without consulting the council. (He exercised royal power independently.)

  • "regality of jurisdiction": a legal term meaning the right to hold a court with authority over life and limb (used in Scottish feudal law).

    • The baron held a regality of jurisdiction within his lands, allowing him to judge capital crimes. (He possessed the highest local judicial power.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Regal (adj): relating to a king or queen; majestic.

    • The queen wore a regal gown adorned with jewels. (A gown fit for a monarch.)

  • Regalia (n): the emblems or insignia of royalty, such as crowns and scepters.

    • The regalia were displayed in the museum for the coronation anniversary. (The royal symbols and objects.)

  • Regality (n) is distinct from royalty (n, a person of royal blood or the status thereof), though both relate to monarchy.

Synonyms
  • Sovereignty: supreme authority within a territory.
  • Kingship: the position or dignity of a king.
  • Prerogative: a special right or privilege exclusive to a ruler.
  • Dominion: the power to rule or control.
Related Idioms

  • "To hold regality over": to exercise royal authority over a group or area.

    • The ancient emperor held regality over a vast empire. (He ruled with absolute power.)

  • "The regality of the throne": the symbolic and legal power of a monarchy.

    • The regality of the throne was challenged by the rebellious barons. (The monarch's authority was contested.)