principality

noun

prin·​ci·​pal·​i·​ty ˌprin(t)-sə-ˈpa-lə-tē 

plural principalities

1

a

: the state, office, or authority of a prince

b

: the position or responsibilities of a principal (as of a school)

2

: the territory or jurisdiction of a prince : the country that gives title to a prince

3

principalities plural : an order of angels see celestial hierarchy

Examples of principality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

He was born in Monte Carlo, the luxury haven of the wealthy in the principality of Monaco. —Andy Naylor, New York Times, 3 July 2025

The roar of the engines echoing throughout the principality, combined with the picturesque surroundings, made for not only a spectacular race day, but an unforgettable weekend. —Erica Wertheim Zohar, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025

Last year, hometown hero Charles Leclerc took the victory in the principality. —Kanzah Maktoum, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025

Rival principalities, contesting ethnicities/nationalities, and at least three versions of Christianity (Orthodox, Catholic, Armenian), have roiled the hodgepodge. —Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 7 Mar. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for principality

• abnormality
• cardinality
• commonality
• communality
• cordiality
• corporeality
• criminality
• criticality
• functionality
• generality
• geniality
• hospitality

Kids Definition

principality

noun

prin·​ci·​pal·​i·​ty ˌprin(t)-sə-ˈpal-ət-ē 

plural principalities

: a small territory that is ruled by a prince