silver-stick

A silver-stick officer stands guard at the palace gates.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A ceremonial officer: "silver-stick" refers to a specific officer in the British royal household, typically a senior military aide who carries a silver-tipped staff or stick as a symbol of authority and duty, especially in attendance on the sovereign.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The silver-stick stood at attention near the throne during the ceremony. (The ceremonial officer performed his duty in the royal presence.)
  • He was appointed silver-stick for the state banquet, a position of great honour. (He became the senior aide responsible for protocol.)

Advanced Usage

• "Silver-stick in waiting": a specific duty role where the officer is on duty and ready to serve the monarch.
  • The silver-stick in waiting announced the arrival of the ambassador. (The officer on duty made the formal announcement.)

Variants and Related Words

• Silver-stick bearer (n): a person who carries the silver stick, often synonymous with the officer himself.
  • The silver-stick bearer led the procession into the hall. (The officer carrying the silver stick guided the formal march.)

Synonyms

• Gentleman usher: a court official who performs similar ceremonial duties.
• Aide-de-camp: a military officer serving as an assistant to a senior officer, though less specific in ceremonial context.

Related Idioms

• To carry the silver stick: to hold the ceremonial position of silver-stick.
  • He was proud to carry the silver stick at the coronation. (He performed the ceremonial role.)