What does regency mean?
A regency is a period during which a regent governs instead of a monarch. The regent may rule because the monarch is a minor, is absent from the country, or is otherwise unable to perform the duties of government. The term is especially familiar in British history through the Regency of 1811–1820, when the Prince Regent governed for George III. More generally, “regency” can mean the office or authority of the person serving as regent, as well as the period of that rule. It is a formal historical and political term rather than an everyday description of temporary leadership. The word is also used in phrases such as “a regency government” and “during the regency,” where it emphasizes an arrangement in which authority is exercised on behalf of another person.
nounA period of rule by a regent, or the office and authority of a regent. In British history, the term also refers to the period during which a monarch was too young, absent, or otherwise unable to govern personally.
- The period during which a regent governs on behalf of a monarch.
- The position, office, or authority of a regent.
- The period of minority or incapacity during which a monarch is represented by a regent.
"The country entered a regency while the young king was still a child."
"The regency lasted until the monarch came of age."
"The council was appointed to govern during the regency."
The plural is used for separate periods of rule by a regent or for different offices or arrangements of government.
"The two regencies were separated by a period of direct royal rule."
The British Regency of 1811–1820 was a period when the future George IV governed as regent for the young King George III, who was no longer able to rule effectively.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does regency come from?
Regency comes through French regence from Latin regentia, a noun formed from regere, meaning “to rule” or “direct.” The related English word regent originally referred to a ruler appointed to govern on behalf of a monarch. Latin forms such as regalis, meaning “royal,” and words like regime and regular also reflect the same root and its development through French.
Related word forms
How regency is actually used
The word is most strongly associated with British constitutional history, especially the Regency of 1811–1820. In general use, it can refer more broadly to rule by a regent in any monarchy or political system.