Merovingian

Merovingian refers to the Frankish dynasty that ruled much of what is now France and Germany from roughly the 5th to 8th centuries.

The name comes from Merovech, a semi-legendary founder.

In historical contexts, Merovingian describes the art, script, or culture of this period: Merovingian manuscripts, Merovingian jewelry.

The later kings became figureheads while mayors of the palace held real power—hence Merovingian sometimes suggests nominal authority without substance.