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Regalia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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regalia

[rษชหˆษกeษชliษ™ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

royal attire

Regalia refers to the emblems or symbols of royalty, such as crowns, scepters, and robes, that are worn or carried during official ceremonies or events. Regalia are often richly decorated and are used to symbolize the power and authority of a monarch or ruler.

Synonyms

emblems, insignia, symbols.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
regalia

used to describe the ceremonial clothes, decorations, and symbols associated with royalty or high office.

  • The king's regalia included a golden crown and an ornate scepter
insignia

refers to a badge or distinguishing mark of authority, honor, or membership in an organization.

  • The officer proudly wore the insignia of his rank on his uniform
emblems

refers to objects or symbols that represent a particular quality, group, or country.

  • The olive branch is an emblem of peace
symbols

used to describe items, signs, or objects that represent something else, often an abstract concept.

  • The heart is a universal symbol of love

Examples of usage

  • The king wore his regalia during the coronation ceremony.
  • The queen's regalia sparkled in the sunlight as she greeted the guests.
Context #2 | Noun

official rights and privileges

Regalia can also refer to the rights, privileges, or prerogatives that are associated with a particular position or status. These regalia may include exclusive access to certain benefits, authority to make decisions, or special privileges granted to individuals or groups.

Synonyms

prerogatives, privileges, rights.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
regalia

Typically refers to the decorations, insignia, or formal clothes that signify someone's rank or role, especially in a ceremonial context.

  • The king appeared in full regalia for the coronation ceremony.
  • The university graduates wore their academic regalia proudly.
privileges

Indicates special advantages or benefits granted to a particular person or group, often implying a sense of exclusivity. It can imply inequality or favoritism.

  • Employees of the month enjoy certain privileges, such as extra vacation days.
  • Growing up in the city afforded him the privilege of accessing top-notch education.
rights

Refers to entitlements or freedoms that are guaranteed to individuals, usually based on legal or moral principles. This term is often used in discussions about equality and justice.

  • Everyone has the right to free speech.
  • Housing is considered a fundamental human right.
prerogatives

Highlights special rights or privileges specific to a particular position or person, often associated with authority or high status. It may have a slightly formal tone.

  • As the project leader, she had the prerogative to make the final decision.
  • Diplomats often have certain prerogatives that allow them to act with more freedom.

Examples of usage

  • The CEO enjoyed the regalia of being in charge, making all major decisions for the company.
  • The regalia of being a senior member of the organization included access to the executive lounge and priority seating at events.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from Latin 'regalis', meaning 'royal', reflecting its ties to kings and queens.
  • In medieval times, regalia included crowns, scepters, and thrones, all symbols of a monarch's power.
  • Different cultures have unique regalia; for instance, Native American chiefs have distinct headdresses representing leadership.

Cultural Significance

  • During coronation ceremonies, specific regalia signifies the authority and responsibilities given to a new monarch.
  • In the UK, the Crown Jewels, which are part of royal regalia, are displayed in the Tower of London as a symbol of monarchy.
  • Some organizations also use regalia like chains of office or ceremonial garments to signify rank and eligibility.

Literature

  • Regalia often appears in fantasy novels, where characters might quest to reclaim a lost crown or magical items of power.
  • In Shakespeareโ€™s plays, the depiction of royalty is often associated with elaborate regalia, signifying their status.
  • Classic literature sometimes reveals regalia as a motif representing the burdens of power, not just prestige.

Art and Symbolism

  • Artists throughout history have depicted regal figures adorned in elaborate regalia to emphasize their authority.
  • Paintings of historical events often showcase opulence through the depiction of regalia, conveying the wealth and power of rulers.
  • Symbolism in regalia is crucial; for example, a crown often symbolizes divinity and the right to rule from a higher power.

Origin of 'regalia'

The word 'regalia' has its origins in Latin, where 'regalis' means 'of a king' or 'royal.' The term was first used in English in the 1530s to refer to the emblems or insignia of royalty. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the broader concept of rights and privileges associated with a particular position or status.

See also: regally.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,504, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.