# principality

/ˌpɹɪnsɪˈpæɫɪti/ (US) · /pɹˌɪnsɪpˈælɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/principality
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a small country or area that is ruled by a prince or princess. It is a type of monarchy where the leader is a member of a royal family.

For teachers: a sovereign state or territory governed by a prince or princess. Often used in historical contexts to describe small European states or regions under the rule of a monarch.

## Examples

- The small principality is famous for its beautiful mountains.
- During the nineteenth century, the principality maintained its independence despite being surrounded by larger empires.
- The treaty established the principality as a buffer state, granting the local ruler significant autonomy in exchange for a formal alliance with the central government.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.