Regent: meaning, definitions and examples

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regent

 

[ˈriː.dʒənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

political role

A regent is a person appointed to administer a state because the monarch is a minor, absent, or incapacitated. They typically hold full sovereign powers and make governmental decisions on behalf of the king or queen.

Synonyms

administrator, guardian, viceroy.

Examples of usage

  • The regent ruled until the young prince came of age.
  • During his absence, the regent took charge of the kingdom.
  • The council appointed a regent to lead during the crisis.
Context #2 | Noun

educational position

A regent can also refer to a member of a governing body of a university or college, responsible for overseeing its administration and policies.

Synonyms

board member, governor, trustee.

Examples of usage

  • The regent discussed the new academic policies.
  • As a regent, she participated in vital decision-making for the university.
  • The board of regents met to review the budget.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'regent' comes from the Latin word 'regens', which means 'ruling' or 'governing'.
  • Regents have been essential in various monarchies throughout history, particularly when a monarch was too young, absent, or incapacitated.
  • In medieval Europe, regents often held significant power, sometimes even becoming influential kings or queens themselves.

Politics

  • In some modern nations, the position of regent can exist alongside a parliamentary system, ensuring continuity of leadership when necessary.
  • Regents may have full governing powers or just act in an advisory capacity, depending on the laws of the realm they serve.
  • Some countries have defined legal frameworks for when and how regents may act, outlining their duties and limitations.

Pop Culture

  • The character of a regent appears in various films and series, often portrayed as a figure of intrigue or power, such as in historical dramas.
  • In the popular board game 'Game of Thrones', players can assume roles akin to regents when they are vying for power on behalf of a noble house.
  • Books and stories about regents often explore themes of responsibility, power struggles, and the impact of their decisions on the kingdom.

Literature

  • Regents are frequently depicted in fantasy and historical literature as characters who often face moral dilemmas or challenges in ruling.
  • William Shakespeare’s works sometimes feature regents who navigate complex political situations, reflecting their dual role of power and vulnerability.
  • In Charles Dickens's 'A Tale of Two Cities', discussions around authority can touch on the roles of regents in shaping society during turbulent times.

Legal Framework

  • In some jurisdictions, legal regulations define who can be a regent and the extent of their authority during the absence of the monarch.
  • Certain royal families have specific rules regarding regents, such as who is eligible and how long they can serve, often outlined in royal decrees.
  • The role of a regent can influence succession laws, ensuring stability until the rightful heir can take control.

Translations

Translations of the word "regent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 regente

🇮🇳 राज्यपाल

🇩🇪 Regent

🇮🇩 regent

🇺🇦 регієнт

🇵🇱 regent

🇯🇵 摂政

🇫🇷 régent

🇪🇸 regente

🇹🇷 vali

🇰🇷 섭정

🇸🇦 وصي

🇨🇿 regent

🇸🇰 regent

🇨🇳 摄政

🇸🇮 regent

🇮🇸 regent

🇰🇿 регент

🇬🇪 რეგენტი

🇦🇿 regent

🇲🇽 regente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,700, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.