noun
monarch
MAH-nark/ˈmɑːnərk/
A sovereign ruler, such as a king or queen.
The monarch sits on her throne in dignified ceremonial robes.
Etymology
The roots describe someone who rules alone. The word later came to denote a hereditary sovereign, whose powers may be limited rather than absolute.
In context
At the top of the pattern most people recognize sits the monarch: king or queen.
More examples
- The constitution limits the monarch's power.
- She becomes monarch when her father gives up the throne.
- Portraits of past monarchs line the palace walls.
Forms
monarch · monarchs
monarchy noun — Government headed by a king or queen.
monarchical adjective — Relating to rule by a monarch.