reigning

Definition

Adjective: 1. Currently holding and exercising sovereign power or authority: Refers to a monarch or ruler who is the current, active sovereign of a nation or territory. 2. Currently holding a title or championship: Used to describe the person or team that is the most recent and current winner of a competition, holding the title at the present time. 3. Predominant or most powerful at a given time: Describes something that is dominant, influential, or supreme in its field during the current period.

Usage and Examples

As an adjective describing a monarch:
- The reigning monarch attended the ceremony.
- All official documents require the signature of the reigning sovereign.
As an adjective describing a champion:
- She is the reigning world champion in the 100-meter dash.
- The team will face the reigning cup holders in the final.
As an adjective describing a dominant force or idea:
- He challenged the reigning theory in physics.
- The reigning style in fashion this season is minimalist.

Advanced Usage

"The reigning...": Often used with "the" to specify the particular individual or entity currently in power or holding a title.
- The reigning champion has held the title for three years.
Used to imply a temporary or current state of authority that may be subject to change, unlike more permanent terms like "eternal" or "permanent."

Variants and Related Words

Reign (verb): To hold royal office; to rule as a monarch. (e.g., )
Reign (noun): The period during which a sovereign rules. (e.g., )
Reigns (noun, plural): Often used figuratively to mean control or dominion. (e.g., )

Synonyms

Ruling: Currently exercising authority (most direct synonym for a monarch).
Incumbent: Currently holding an office or position.
Current: Of the present time (neutral, often used for champions).
Reigning champion: Titleholder, defending champion.

Antonyms

Former: Having previously held the position.
Deposed: Forcibly removed from power.
Abdicated: Formally renounced a throne.
Defeated: Specifically for a champion who has lost their title.

Related Phrases and Idioms

Reigning supreme: To be unquestionably the best or most powerful.
- In the world of luxury cars, this brand still reigns supreme.
Long-reigning: Having held power or a title for an extended period.
- The long-reigning emperor was beloved by his people.

Adjective

exercising power or authority

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