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Titular: meaning, definitions and examples

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titular

 

[ ˈtɪtʃələr ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

title holder

The term 'titular' refers to someone who holds a title, but may not have the power or responsibilities typically associated with it. For example, a titular king may reign in name only, without actual governance responsibilities. The term is often used in discussions of leadership when there is a distinction between ceremonial duties and practical authority. Additionally, it can relate to something being named after a particular entity, like a titular character in a story.

Synonyms

apparent, ceremonial, nominal, symbolic

Examples of usage

  • The titular head of state.
  • A titular honor given without real power.
  • The titular character in the novel.

Translations

Translations of the word "titular" in other languages:

🇵🇹 titular

🇮🇳 शीर्षक

🇩🇪 Titel

🇮🇩 judul

🇺🇦 титульний

🇵🇱 tytułowy

🇯🇵 タイトル

🇫🇷 titulaire

🇪🇸 titular

🇹🇷 başlık

🇰🇷 제목

🇸🇦 عنوان

🇨🇿 titular

🇸🇰 titular

🇨🇳 标题

🇸🇮 naslovni

🇮🇸 titlar

🇰🇿 атақты

🇬🇪 ტიტული

🇦🇿 başlıq

🇲🇽 título

Etymology

The word 'titular' derives from the Latin word 'titulus', which means 'title'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Initially, it referred to titles in a literary or formal sense. As English evolved, the meaning broadened to encompass the idea of title holders, particularly in contexts where those individuals had limited authority compared to their titles. In modern usage, it often describes a situation where the title exists but the associated power or responsibilities do not, reflecting on governance, literature, and formal ceremonies.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,210, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.