principality

noun

prin·​ci·​pal·​i·​ty ˌprin(t)-sə-ˈpa-lə-tē 

plural principalities

1

a

: the state, office, or authority of a prince

b

: the position or responsibilities of a principal (as of a school)

2

: the territory or jurisdiction of a prince : the country that gives title to a prince

3

principalities plural : an order of angels see celestial hierarchy

Examples of principality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Princess Charlene and Princess Gabriella of Monaco are celebrating the principality's National Day in mother-daughter style that's totally très chic. —Janine Henni, People.com, 19 Nov. 2024

Over the next 200 years, in much the same way, many nation-states would replace principalities, kingdoms, empires, and colonies that had existed for centuries. —Mark Mazower, Foreign Affairs, 24 Aug. 2021

The tiny principality has a radiant glow and everything there seems to sparkle. —Caroline Reid, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Shop at One Monte-Carlo Monaco has a long history, but that doesn’t prevent the principality from continuing to develop and embrace the future. —Lane Nieset, Forbes, 14 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

principality

noun

prin·​ci·​pal·​i·​ty ˌprin(t)-sə-ˈpal-ət-ē 

plural principalities

: a small territory that is ruled by a prince