Monarch: meaning, definitions and examples

👑

Add to dictionary

monarch

[ˈmɒn.ək ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

ruler of a kingdom

A monarch is a king or queen who rules over a kingdom. Monarchs usually inherit their position and have significant power and authority. They are often seen as the head of state and symbol of their country.

Synonyms

king, queen, ruler, sovereign.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
monarch	Used in a formal or general context to refer to a single ruler of a kingdom or nation, regardless of gender. The monarch of the country delivered a speech on national unity. The monarchs of old Europe had vast powers and influence.
sovereign	Used in a formal context to refer to a supreme ruler or authority, often emphasizing legal and official power. The sovereign signed the new treaty with neighboring countries. As a sovereign nation, it has the right to defend its borders.
ruler	A more general term that can refer to someone who has control or authority over a country or region, not necessarily linked to monarchy. The ruler of the ancient city-state imposed strict laws. She became a formidable ruler after years of turbulent events.
king	Refers specifically to a male monarch and is commonly used in historical, literary, or traditional contexts. King Arthur is a legendary figure in British folklore. The king granted lands to his loyal knights.
queen	Refers specifically to a female monarch and is used similarly to 'king' in historical, literary, or traditional contexts. Queen Elizabeth II is one of the longest-reigning monarchs in British history. The queen hosted a grand banquet at the palace.

Examples of usage

The monarch of England is Queen Elizabeth II.
The monarch of Spain is King Felipe VI.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

butterfly

Monarch is also a type of butterfly known for its distinctive orange and black pattern. The monarch butterfly is famous for its long-distance migration and is a symbol of beauty and grace.

Synonyms

butterfly, insect, lepidoptera.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
monarch	Used to refer to a king or queen, or a person who has supreme authority in an organization or group. It can also specifically mean the Monarch butterfly in a biological context. Queen Elizabeth II was the monarch of the United Kingdom. The monarch butterfly migrates thousands of miles every year.
butterfly	Used to refer to the insect that is known for its colorful wings and delicate flight. Informally, it can also refer to a strong feeling in the stomach, often associated with nervousness or excitement. The garden was filled with butterflies fluttering among the flowers. She felt butterflies in her stomach before the big presentation.
insect	Used as a general term for a small arthropod animal with six legs and generally one or two pairs of wings. The entomologist studied various kinds of insects. An ant is a type of insect.
lepidoptera	Used in a scientific or formal context to refer to the order of insects that includes butterflies and moths. Lepidoptera is a diverse order with over 180,000 species. The study of lepidoptera encompasses both butterflies and moths.

Examples of usage

We saw a beautiful monarch butterfly in the garden.
The monarch butterfly is often spotted during the summer months.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'monarch' comes from the Greek word 'monarkhis', meaning 'single ruler'.
It evolved through Latin 'monarchia' before entering the English language in the Middle Ages.

History

Monarchy is one of the oldest types of government, with roots tracing back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia.
The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, limited the powers of the English monarch, establishing a legacy that influenced modern democracies.

Pop Culture

Many popular films and books feature monarchs, portraying them as heroic leaders or tyrants, shaping public perceptions of royalty.
In television, shows like 'The Crown' and 'Game of Thrones' have sparked global interest in royal families and their dramas.

Politics

Many contemporary monarchs hold symbolic roles, with power largely ceremonial, while elected officials manage the government.
Countries such as the UK, Sweden, and Japan have constitutional monarchies where the king or queen is a figurehead.

Symbolism

Monarchs often symbolize national unity and continuity, serving as living connections to a country’s history.
Crowns, scepters, and thrones are powerful symbols often associated with monarchs, representing authority and governance.

Translations

Translations of the word "monarch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 monarca

🇮🇳 राजा

🇩🇪 Monarch

🇮🇩 monarki

🇺🇦 монарх

🇵🇱 monarcha

🇯🇵 君主 (くんしゅ)

🇫🇷 monarque

🇪🇸 monarca

🇹🇷 monarş

🇰🇷 군주 (gunju)

🇸🇦 عاهل

🇨🇿 monarcha

🇸🇰 monarcha

🇨🇳 君主 (jūnzhǔ)

🇸🇮 monarh

🇮🇸 konungur

🇰🇿 монарх

🇬🇪 მონარქი

🇦🇿 monarx

🇲🇽 monarca

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,758 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
7755 digestion
7756 patrol
7757 progressively
7758 monarch
7759 groove
7760 suburban
7761 tidal
...