adjective
regal
REE-gul/ˈriːɡl/
Of or befitting a king or queen.
The older woman stands with regal dignity in her formal clothing.
Etymology
The pieces mean “of or belonging to a king,” but the Latin adjective also meant “worthy of a king.” That connection makes regal apt for an appearance or manner marked by royal dignity.
In context
He relocated his royal court to the Palace of Versailles, a traditional hunting retreat of his father’s, which Louis further expanded into a massive, regal estate which reflected his regal ambitions and status as an absolute monarch.
More examples
- The hotel's grand staircase gives the lobby a regal appearance.
- She sits with regal dignity, even in a folding chair.
- A purple velvet cloak completes his regal costume.
Forms
regal · more regal · most regal
regally adverb — In a manner befitting a monarch.
Similar words
- royal
- More directly indicates an actual connection to a monarch.
- majestic
- Emphasizes impressive grandeur without necessarily suggesting a king or queen.
- kingly
- Specifically suggests a king rather than either kind of monarch.