sceptred
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. Invested with legal power or official authority, especially as symbolized by possessing a scepter: Describes a person, especially a monarch, who holds formal power and whose status is represented by the ceremonial rod or staff known as a scepter.
Usage
The adjective "sceptred" is a literary and formal term. It is primarily used to describe rulers, emphasizing their legitimate, sovereign power and majestic office, often in a historical, poetic, or ceremonial context. It is not typically used in everyday conversation.
Examples
- The sceptred monarch addressed the assembled parliament from the throne.
- In the painting, the sceptred queen is depicted with symbols of justice and mercy.
- The poem speaks of "sceptred isle," a metaphorical reference to a kingdom ruled by a sovereign.
Advanced Usage
- Metaphorical/Figurative Use: The term can be used metaphorically to describe any entity or person wielding great, almost regal, power or influence in a particular domain.
- He was the sceptred king of the investment banking world.
Variants and Related Words
- Scepter (noun, US spelling) / Sceptre (noun, UK spelling): The ceremonial staff held by a ruling monarch as a symbol of authority.
- Sceptered (adjective, US spelling): Alternative spelling of "sceptred."
Synonyms
- Regal: Of, resembling, or fit for a monarch, especially in being magnificent or dignified.
- Sovereign: Possessing supreme or ultimate power (as a noun, it means a supreme ruler).
- Anointed: Consecrated or made sacred, often in a religious coronation ceremony for a monarch.
- Crowned: Having been formally invested with a crown as a symbol of monarchy.
Antonyms
- Powerless: Without ability, influence, or power.
- Common: Without special rank or status; ordinary.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- The sceptred isle: A poetic phrase for England (or Britain), famously used by Shakespeare in ("This royal throne of kings, this sceptred isle...").
- To wield the scepter: To exercise royal power or authority.
Adjective
- invested with legal power or official authority especially as symbolized by having a scepter