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Retinue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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retinue

[ˌrɛtɪˈnjuː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

formal occasion

A group of advisers, assistants, or other accompanying individuals attending an important person.

Synonyms

entourage, staff, suite.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retinue

This word is used to describe a group of people who accompany an important person. It's often used in formal or historical contexts.

  • The queen arrived with her retinue of advisers and attendants.
  • During the medieval period, a knight would travel with his retinue.
entourage

More casual than 'retinue' and used to describe a group of people surrounding or attending to someone, often a celebrity or influential person.

  • The actor was always seen with his entourage wherever he went.
  • A politician's entourage can include bodyguards and assistants.
suite

Commonly used to refer to a group of connected rooms, often luxurious, in a hotel. It can also describe a set of related items or a group of executives working closely together.

  • They booked the honeymoon suite at the five-star hotel.
  • The software suite includes a word processor and a spreadsheet program.
staff

This term is used to refer to the group of people who work for an organization or an individual, such as an office or a company. It can imply a more professional or formal relationship.

  • The CEO thanked her staff for their hard work.
  • Our office staff is very efficient.

Examples of usage

  • The king arrived with his retinue of knights and nobles.
  • She was always surrounded by her retinue of bodyguards and personal assistants.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

In medieval Europe, the group of retainers and servants who traveled with a nobleman.

Synonyms

attendants, followers, servants.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retinue

Use this word when referring to a group of people who accompany an important person, especially in a formal or official capacity.

  • The king traveled with a large retinue of advisors and guards.
  • The celebrity's retinue ensured that no one got too close.
followers

Use this word when referring to individuals who support, admire, or are influenced by someone, commonly used in social media or fan contexts.

  • The influencer has thousands of followers on her Instagram account.
  • He amassed a large group of loyal followers who supported his ideas.
servants

This word is appropriate when referring to individuals employed to perform domestic duties for others, often in a historical or formal setting. Be aware that the term can have a negative or outdated connotation.

  • The old mansion was staffed by numerous servants who maintained the estate.
  • In historical dramas, the lord's servants are dressed in traditional attire.
attendants

This word is suitable when talking about individuals who attend to the needs of others, especially in a more service-oriented or event-related setting.

  • The wedding had numerous attendants helping to ensure everything ran smoothly.
  • Flight attendants are trained to assist passengers during the flight.

Examples of usage

  • The lord's retinue included his squire, cook, and stable boy.
  • The retinue would set up camp each night during their journey.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In medieval times, nobles had a retinue to assist them in travels and during battles.
  • Royal courts often had extensive retinues, showcasing their power and social status.

Literature

  • The term is frequently used in classic literature, depicting the entourage of kings, queens, and important figures.
  • In contemporary narratives, it reflects the dynamics of fame, often highlighting both loyalty and the burden of overseeing a large group.

Cultural Significance

  • In modern politics, leaders often have a retinue to help manage their public appearances and provide security.
  • The concept of a retinue extends to celebrities who have teams for public relations, event planning, and personal assistance.

Psychology

  • Having a retinue can affect a person's mental state, offering support but also pressure to maintain relationships.
  • The presence of a loyal retinue can enhance a leader's confidence and decision-making abilities.

Origin of 'retinue'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'retenue', meaning 'to hold back or retain'.
  • It is derived from the Latin 'retinere', which also means 'to hold back'.

The word 'retinue' originated from the Old French term 'retinue', meaning 'a body of retainers'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. In medieval times, a nobleman's retinue was an essential part of his household, providing support, protection, and assistance during travels and formal occasions.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,509, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.