adjective

imperial

im-PEER-ee-uhl/ɪmˈpɪriəl/

Relating to or suggesting the authority or grandeur of an empire or emperor.

The throne and grand columns give the hall imperial splendor.

A grand imperial palace hall with a throne, formal columns and a crown on a cushion, empire-related authority.

Etymology

imperiLatincommand, supreme power, empire

Imperium covered both supreme governing power and the realm under that power. Imperial therefore relates to an empire or to the emperor who exercises its authority.

In context

The Full History Documentary92:25

The 38-year-old monarch stripped off his imperial purple mantle, his gold eagle embossed boots, and his imperial insignia, reducing himself to a common Roman soldier.

Fall of Constantinople Full History Documentary: How the Ottoman Empire Destroyed Byzantium

More examples

The museum displayed imperial portraits.
He studied imperial administration.
The palace preserved its imperial furnishings.

Forms

imperial

imperialism noun — extending a country’s power abroad

Similar words

royal: Relates to a king or queen, not necessarily an emperor.
regal: Suggests kingly dignity or grandeur.