Royal
ˈrɔɪəl
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to, or belonging to, a king or queen; or having the status of a monarch.
ˈrɔɪəl
Belonging to, or relating to a king or queen.
The royal palace is guarded by soldiers.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're at a fancy party for a king or queen. Anything there – the fancy clothes, the big castle – is 'royal'. It means it belongs to, or is connected to, a ruler.
👶 For kids: Something royal is about a king or queen, like their crown or castle!
More Examples
She received a royal invitation to the state dinner.
The queen wore her royal jewels to the coronation.
How It's Used
"The royal family of England has a long and storied history."
"Royal decrees are issued by the monarch."
Possessing the qualities of a king or queen, such as dignity, grandeur, or excellence.
ˈrɔɪəl
Possessing qualities or characteristics associated with a king or queen.
The event was a royal celebration.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone acting like a queen or king, even if they aren't one. If they're very dignified, generous, and act in a grand way, we can say they have 'royal' qualities.
👶 For kids: When someone is acting very kind and special, like a king or queen, that's royal.
More Examples
He displayed royal generosity towards the charity.
The performance was a royal success.
How It's Used
"Her royal bearing commanded respect."
"They were treated with royal hospitality."
Idioms & expressions
Royal Flush
A high-ranking hand in poker.
"He was dealt a royal flush, the best possible hand."
Royal Icing
A hard white icing made from egg whites, icing sugar, and often lemon juice, used for decorating cakes and biscuits.
"The cake was decorated with beautiful royal icing."
From Old French *roial*, from Latin *regalis* ('relating to a king'), from *rex* ('king'). The word's usage has evolved from directly relating to monarchs to encompassing qualities associated with them, such as grandeur, nobility, and excellence.
The term 'royal' has been used in English since the late 13th century, initially to denote something pertaining to the king. It has since broadened to encompass related concepts of nobility and superiority.
Memory tip
Think of a king or queen and their associated possessions and responsibilities.
Word Origin
"King"