Reign Meaning and Definition
Reign
Pronunciation
/ˈraɪn/
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Definition
A reign refers to a period of time during which a monarch or sovereign holds power, or the act of ruling or governing. It can also describe a period of time during which a particular idea, fashion, or phenomenon is dominant or prevalent.
Examples
1. “The king’s reign was marked by a period of peace and prosperity.”
2. “The reign of the ancient dynasty came to an end with the death of the last ruler.”
3. “The new fashion trend reigned supreme on the runways this season.”
Synonyms
1. Rule
2. Sovereignty
3. Dominion
Antonyms
1. Subservience
2. Surrender
3. Obedience
Additional Information
A reign can refer to the period of time during which a monarch holds power, but it can also be used more broadly to describe a period of time during which something or someone is dominant or prevalent. For example, a particular fashion trend might reign supreme for a season, or a particular idea might reign supreme in a particular field of thought. The concept of a reign is often associated with ideas of power, authority, and dominance.
Throughout history, the length and nature of a monarch’s reign has often had a significant impact on the development of a country or region. For example, the reign of a wise and just ruler might be marked by a period of peace and prosperity, while the reign of a tyrannical ruler might be marked by conflict and strife.
In modern times, the concept of a reign has also been used in a more figurative sense to describe the period of time during which something or someone is dominant or prevalent. For example, a company might reign supreme in its industry for a period of time, or a particular athlete might reign supreme in their sport.
Etymology
The word “reign” comes from the Old French word “regnier,” which means “to rule” or “to govern.” This word is derived from the Latin word “regnare,” which is also the source of the English word “regency.”
Usage Notes
The word “reign” can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a period of time during which a monarch or sovereign holds power, or the act of ruling or governing. As a verb, it means to rule or govern, or to hold power or dominance over something.
Cultural References
The concept of a reign has been referenced in numerous works of literature, art, and music throughout history. For example, the idea of a reign is central to the plot of William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” which explores the theme of royal power and succession.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Reign supreme”: This phrase means to be the dominant or prevailing force in a particular situation or field.
2. “Reign in”: This phrase means to control or restrain something, often one’s own desires or impulses.
Collocations
1. “The king’s reign was marked by…” (used to describe a notable feature or event of a monarch’s reign)
2. “The company reigned supreme in its industry…” (used to describe a company’s dominance in its field)
Frequency of Use
The word “reign” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of use that is somewhat lower than words like “rule” or “government,” but higher than words like “monarchy” or “sovereignty.”
Common Misspellings
1. “Rain” (this is a common mistake, but the word “rain” has a completely different meaning)
2. “Regin” (this is a less common mistake, but still worth noting)