king
king · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
The male ruler of an independent state, especially one who inherits the position by right of birth.
- 2.
A person or thing regarded as the finest or most important in its sphere.
- 3.
The most important chess piece, which each player attempts to checkmate.
- 4.
A playing card bearing a picture of a king, ranking next below an ace.
Forms
plural: kings
Phrases & expressions
- •fit for a king — Of very high quality; luxurious.
- •a king's ransom — A very large sum of money.
- •live like a king — Live in great comfort and luxury.
- •king of the castle — A person who is in a dominant position.
- •the King's English — Standard or correct English (British).
Related words
Etymology
From Old English cyning, from Proto-Germanic kuningaz, derived from kunją ("kin, family"). Related to German König, Dutch koning, and Swedish kung. The word originally meant "son of the noble kin."