Principality
/ˌprɪn.sɪˈpæl.ɪ.ti/noun
A state ruled by a prince or princess.
Did you know?The term originates from Latin 'principatus', which not only referred to the rule of a prince but also hinted at the divine right of kings, tying sovereignty to sacred legitimacy.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*pr̥i-
“to love, to value, to hold dear.”
Latin
Latin
princeps
“first, chief; one who is first in rank, a leader.”
Late Latin
Latin
principatus
“the office of a chief, rule, or authority.”
Old French
Old French
principalite
“the quality or state of being principal or chief.”
Middle English
Middle English
principalite
“the state or condition of being a prince.”
Modern English
English
principality
“a territory or domain ruled by a prince.”