Reign – Meaning, Definition, Synonyms and Antonyms

The word ‘Reign’ (Noun) refers to holding royal office or supreme authority, ruling over others, or being dominant in a certain area. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Reign’ correctly in sentences.

Reign Explained in Depth

A complete and detailed guide to the word ‘Reign’ including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.

Meanings of Reign

Reign means to rule as a monarch or sovereign, to exercise authority or dominance, or to be prevalent in a particular sphere. For example, “The king will reign for many years,” or “Silence reigned in the courtroom. reign refers to the period during which a monarch or ruler holds office, or a time when something is predominant or influential. For example, During Queen Elizabeth’s reign, the country prospered.

Definition

Reign refer to have control, authority, or power over a particular place, people, or situation. When you reign, you actively hold a position of leadership or rule, usually as a monarch, like a king or queen.

However, it can also refer to being dominant in a situation like saying “calmness reigned” means calmness took over. In essence, to reign means to lead with influence and authority, shaping what happens within your realm of control.

Etymology

The word “reign” comes from the Latin regnare meaning “to rule” or “to govern.” It evolved through Old French (reignier) before arriving in Middle English as reignen. The root Latin word reg- also gave rise to words like “regal” and “regulate.”

  • Latin: regnare = “to rule”
  • Old French: reignier = “to reign”
  • Middle English: reignen

Example Sentences

  • The king vowed to reign with justice and fairness.
  • During her reign, the queen brought peace to the kingdom.
  • Chaos reigned after the sudden storm struck the city.

Reign Synonyms

  • Rule
  • Govern
  • Dominate
  • Lead
  • Command
  • Preside
  • Hold power
  • Prevail
  • Control
  • Influence

Reign Antonyms

  • Follow
  • Obey
  • Submit
  • Yield
  • Relinquish
  • Surrender
  • Give up
  • Succumb
  • Lose power
  • Vacate

FAQs about Reign

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Reign”

1. What does “reign” actually mean?

As a verb, it means to rule as a monarch or to be in control; as a noun, it means the period during which someone or something is dominant or in power.

2. Can “reign” be used outside of monarchy?

Yes! For example, “Chaos reigned during the blackout” means chaos was dominant or widespread.

3. Is “reign” always about royalty?

No, it can also mean any situation where something is in control or dominant, like “calm reigns in the garden.”

4. How is “reign” different from “rule”?

“Rule” is broader and can refer to any form of leadership or control. “Reign” has a more formal or royal tone, especially as a noun.

5. Can I use “reign” in casual conversation?

Yes, it works well in both formal and informal contexts, like “Peace reigned in the house after the argument ended.”

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