monarchy
UK: ˈmɒnəki | US: ˈmɑːnərki
n. a form of government with a monarch at the head
n. a state or nation governed by a monarch
n. the royal family or lineage of a monarch
The word "monarchy" traces back to Greek monarkhia (μοναρχία), combining monos (single) and arkhos (ruler). It originally described a system where power was held by one individual, contrasting with oligarchy (rule by few) or democracy (rule by the people). Over time, it evolved into its modern sense of a hereditary sovereign rule, often associated with kingdoms. The morphemes reflect the core logic of "one ruler," preserved in both spelling and meaning.
The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system.
Ancient Egypt was a powerful monarchy ruled by pharaohs.
The monarchy was abolished after the revolution.
Critics argue that monarchy is an outdated form of governance.
The ceremony celebrated the monarchy’s 1,000-year history.