Definition

Proper noun: - The joint monarchs of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1689: "William and Mary" refers specifically to the co-reigning sovereigns King William III (William of Orange) and Queen Mary II. Their reign followed the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and established a constitutional monarchy.

Usage

• As a historical reference: The term is used to denote the period of their joint rule or the political settlement associated with it.
  • The reign of William and Mary marked a turning point in British constitutional history.
  • The college was founded during the time of William and Mary.

Advanced Usage

• "William and Mary style": A term used in antique furniture and decorative arts to describe the design style popular during their reign (c. 1689-1702), characterized by elegant, simpler forms compared to earlier Baroque styles.
  • The museum has a fine collection of William and Mary furniture.

Variants and Related Words

• William III (Proper noun): King William III, ruling jointly (1689-1694) and alone after Mary's death (1694-1702).
• Mary II (Proper noun): Queen Mary II, ruling jointly with her husband William III (1689-1694).

Synonyms

• The joint sovereigns: A formal term for rulers who share power.
• The Orange and Stuart reign: A descriptive reference combining William's House of Orange-Nassau and Mary's House of Stuart.

Noun

1. joint monarchs of England; William III and Mary II