Part of Speech
Noun
Pronunciation
/ˈdaɪnæsti/
Definitions
- A series of rulers from the same family or line, especially one that has ruled a country for a long period of time.
- A family or group that maintains power or influence over several generations.
- A period of time during which a particular family or line rules a country, state, or region.
Usage Examples
- The Ming dynasty in China lasted for almost three centuries.
- The Kennedy family is often referred to as a political dynasty in the United States.
- Many ancient civilizations were ruled by powerful dynasties that shaped their cultures and histories.
- The company grew into a dynasty of business success, passed down through generations.
Etymology
The word 'dynasty' comes from the Greek word 'dynastēs' (δεσπότης), meaning 'ruler' or 'lord,' derived from 'dynasthai,' meaning 'to be able' or 'to rule.' It entered English in the early 17th century, initially used to refer to the rule of families in monarchies or empires.
Synonyms
- Family line
- Royal family
- House
- Bloodline
- Monarchy
Antonyms
- Democracy
- Republic
- Oligarchy
- Non-hereditary rule
Translations
| Language |
Translation |
Pronunciation |
| Spanish |
dinaestía |
/diˈnasθia/ |
| French |
dynastie |
/di.nas.ti/ |
| German |
Dynastie |
/dyˈnastiː/ |
| Italian |
dinaestia |
/diˈnas.ti.a/ |
| Portuguese |
dinaastia |
/dʒi.nɐsˈtiɐ/ |
| Hindi |
वंशावली |
/vanśāvalī/ |
| Chinese (Mandarin) |
王朝 |
/wángcháo/ |
| Russian |
династия |
/dʲɪˈnastʲɪjə/ |
| Arabic |
سلالة |
/suːˈlaːlɑː/ |
| Japanese |
王朝 |
/ōchō/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
- British English: /ˈdaɪnæsti/
- American English: /ˈdaɪnæsti/
Historical Usage
The concept of a dynasty has been integral to the structure of many historical empires, monarchies, and families that wielded power for extended periods. From the Egyptian pharaohs to European monarchs, the legacy of dynastic rule spans many centuries. Dynasties often established strong political systems, enforced by the continuity of leadership within a single family. While the idea of a ruling dynasty is less common in modern governance, it remains a powerful symbol in both political and cultural realms.
Cultural Nuances
In some cultures, the idea of a dynasty is viewed as a means to ensure stability, preserving traditions and values within a family lineage. However, in other cultures, dynasties may be criticized for concentrating power and wealth within one family, creating inequality and stifling social mobility. Political dynasties can sometimes be seen as reinforcing elitism and hindering democratic progress, while in other cases, dynastic rule is associated with prosperity and the continuity of leadership across generations.
More Information
A dynasty typically refers to a sequence of rulers or influential figures from the same family who maintain power across generations. Historically, dynasties have been the cornerstone of monarchies, empires, and aristocracies, where leadership is determined by inheritance. While the concept of a dynasty may seem outdated in modern democratic nations, it remains influential in areas such as politics, where certain families or clans continue to hold significant sway in governance. The concept also extends beyond politics to fields such as business and entertainment, where families control vast empires and industries over generations. Whether viewed as a symbol of strength and continuity or a barrier to equality, the legacy of dynasties remains an important subject in history and contemporary culture.