noun
dynasty
DYE-nuh-stee/ˈdaɪnəsti/
A succession maintaining power over an extended period.
These portraits show three generations of the same royal dynasty.
Etymology
Greek dynasteia meant sovereignty or lordship: the emphasis was on ruling power. In English, the word identifies a family whose members hold that power in succession.
In context
Indeed, Rome itself was ruled by the Tarquin dynasty during this period, a royal family of Atruscan origins.
More examples
- The dynasty ruled the kingdom for nearly three centuries.
- She belongs to a political dynasty that includes two former governors.
- Four championships in five seasons make this team a dynasty.
Forms
dynasty · dynasties
dynastic adjective — Relating to a family's continuing power.
Similar words
- house
- Refers to a ruling family without emphasizing prolonged dominance.
- succession
- Emphasizes a sequence of rulers rather than lasting family power.