monarchy

noun

mon·​ar·​chy ˈmä-nər-kē 

also -ˌnär-

plural monarchies

1

: undivided rule or absolute sovereignty by a single person

Saudi Arabia is governed by a monarchy.

2

: a nation or state having a monarchical government

Britain is a monarchy.

3

: a government having a hereditary chief of state with life tenure and powers varying from nominal to absolute

The country's hereditary monarchy survived for centuries.

Examples of monarchy in a Sentence

the French monarchy of the 18th century

Recent Examples on the Web

That turned into a seismic moment in British history, leading to Charles’ beheading and the temporary abolition of the monarchy. —Pan Pylas, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026

That turned into a seismic moment in British history, leading to civil war, Charles’ beheading and the temporary abolition of the monarchy. —Pan Pylas, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2026

The royal family is facing its most damaging scandal yet, with a disgraced former prince threatening to bring the monarchy to its knees. —Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 20 Feb. 2026

But where there might be a distinction is between the actions of the family and the future of the monarchy, said Jonathan Dimbleby, the King’s biographer and friend. —Jamie Timson, TheWeek, 20 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing monarchy

• constitutional monarchy

Kids Definition

monarchy

noun

mon·​ar·​chy ˈmän-ər-kē 

plural monarchies

1

: total rule by one person

2

: a nation or country ruled by a monarch

3

: a form of government having a chief of state who inherits the position, rules for life, and holds powers varying from very limited to total