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DictionarydauphinFrench royal heir
noun

dauphin

DOH-fuhn/ˈdoʊfən/

The eldest son and heir apparent of a French king.

The dauphin prepares to succeed his father as king of France.

A young adult heir of the historical French court in blue ceremonial clothing stands beside a throne with dolphin heraldic motifs, no modern crown claim.
Etymology
dauphinGreekdolphin

The dolphin was associated with the title of the lords of Viennois and appeared on their arms. Their title passed to the French king’s eldest son as a condition of the province’s transfer to the crown.

In context

Chronicle - Medieval History Documentaries136:24
English soldiers poised at the gates of Paris. At the cathedral of Troyes, Henry's new allies were gathered. The insane king was made to disown his son and heir, the Dauphin.
Hundred Years' War: The Bloodiest War In Medieval History

More examples

  • The king introduces the dauphin to his advisers.
  • Tutors teach the young dauphin how to govern.
  • Several dauphins died before they could inherit the French throne.

Forms

dauphin · dauphins

Similar words

heir
An heir can inherit property or rank, not necessarily a throne.
prince
A prince need not be the eldest son or heir apparent.