English Reference

Word

chamberlain

Phoneticscham·ber·lain, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈtʃeɪmbɝɫən/

UK/tʃˈeɪmbəlˌɪn/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a high-ranking official who manages the household of a king, queen, or noble person.

n. a senior officer in a royal or noble household, historically responsible for managing domestic affairs and finances.

Examples

“The chamberlain announced the arrival of the king.”

“As the Lord Chamberlain, he was responsible for organizing all royal ceremonies and managing the palace staff.”

“The historical records suggest that the chamberlain held significant political influence, as he controlled who was granted private access to the monarch's inner chambers.”

Examples

simple

“The chamberlain announced the arrival of the king.”

contextual

“As the Lord Chamberlain, he was responsible for organizing all royal ceremonies and managing the palace staff.”

complex

“The historical records suggest that the chamberlain held significant political influence, as he controlled who was granted private access to the monarch's inner chambers.”

Usage

Often used as a formal title, such as 'Lord Chamberlain'.

Teaching tip

This term is mostly encountered in historical contexts, literature, or when discussing the British Royal Household.

Real-World Examples

“The list of the dead included the earls of Moray and Strathearn, the marshal, constable, chancellor and chamberlain of Scotland, as well as many barons and knights.”
Phys.org 15 Oct 2026
“Palace sources have suggested it was better to make the Lord Chamberlain's letter public, in a spirit of transparency, rather than risk it emerging in leaks.”
BBC News 7 Sept 2026

Synonyms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Frequent
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated
Register
Formal, Archaic

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