Definition of scepter
1 : a staff or baton borne by a sovereign as an emblem of authority
2 : royal or imperial authority : sovereignty
Read the Latest from M-W
Illustration of scepter
Origin and Etymology of scepter
Middle English sceptre, from Anglo-French septre, from Latin sceptrum, from Greek skēptron staff, scepter, from skēptesthai to prop oneself — more at shaft
First Known Use: 14th century
scepter
Definition of scepter
sceptered
;sceptering
play \-t(ə-)riŋ\transitive verb
: to invest with the scepter in token of royal authority
1526
First Known Use of scepter
1526
SCEPTER Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of scepter for English Language Learners
-
: a long decorated stick that is carried by a king or queen
SCEPTER Defined for Kids
scepter
playDefinition of scepter for Students
: a rod carried by a ruler as a sign of authority a royal scepter
Learn More about scepter
-
Spanish Central: Translation of scepter Nglish: Translation of scepter for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of scepter for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about scepter
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up scepter? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!