sceptres

Monarchs' ceremonial staffs

Sceptres is the plural of sceptre, the British spelling of scepter—an ornamental staff held by monarchs as a symbol of royal authority.

Kings and queens carry sceptres during coronations and formal ceremonies.

Figuratively, sceptres represent sovereign power itself: The sceptres of Europe trembled as revolution spread.

royalty

crown

Sovereign's ornamental headpiece

throneCeremonial chair for sovereigns
monarchHereditary supreme ruler
sovereignSupreme in power

coronation · reign · majesty · orb · regalia · diadem · kingdom · imperial · ruler · royal

ceremonial

ritual

Ceremonial set of actions

processionFormal moving line
coronationCeremony installing a sovereign
pageantryElaborate ceremonial display

investiture · inauguration · anointing · enthronement · regalia · jeweled · gilded · ornate · bejeweled · heraldic

authority

power

Energy transfer rate

commandAuthoritative instruction given
ruleGoverning principle or standard
dominionAuthority to rule

sovereignty · governance · supremacy · control · leadership · jurisdiction · mandate · legitimacy · prerogative · executive

symbolic

emblem

Representational sign or device

insigniaDistinguishing mark of rank
symbolRepresentational mark or sign
representationDepiction or likeness

icon · badge · authority · status · rank · office · legitimacy · divine · heritage · tradition

Opposites

symbols of authority vs. symbols of servitude/powerlessness

sceptreschains

Linked metal restraints

shackles · fetters · yokes · ball and chain · manacles

royal/elite regalia vs. common/practical objects

sceptreswalking sticks

Handheld mobility aids

canes · cudgels · tools · brooms · hoes

monarchical power vs. democratic/popular power

sceptresballot boxes

Sealed containers collecting votes

voting booths · constitutions · petitions · gavels · picket signs

Phrases

royal sceptreCeremonial ruler's staff

Family

sceptre, sceptred

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G