Monarchy

Pronunciation

Origin

From Ancient Greek μοναρχία.

Full definition of monarchy

Noun

1. A government with a hereditary head of state (whether as a figurehead or as a powerful ruler).
• An absolute monarchy is a monarchy where the monarch is legally the ultimate authority in all temporal matters.
• A constitutional monarchy is a monarchy in which the monarch's power is legally constrained, ranging from where minor concessions have been made to appease certain factions to where the monarch is a figurehead with all real power in the hands of a legislative body.
2. The territory ruled over by a monarch; a kingdom.
• ShakespeareWhat scourge for perjury
  Can this dark monarchy afford false Clarence?

Coordinate terms

• (a form of government) democracy