dynast

[ dahy-nast, -nuhst; British also din-ast ]

noun

1. a ruler or potentate, especially a hereditary ruler.

dynast

/ ˈdɪnəst; -æst /

noun

1. a ruler, esp a hereditary one

Word History and Origins

Origin of dynast¹

1625–35; < Latin dynastēs < Greek dynástēs, equivalent to dýnas ( thai ) to rule + -tēs agent suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of dynast¹

C17: from Latin dynastēs, from Greek dunastēs, from dunasthai to be powerful

Example Sentences

If elected, Dingell won't be alone as a political dynast in the House of Representatives.

From The Daily Beast

He was dynast of the rich valleys and the green slopes, and liege lord of all living things about him.

From Project Gutenberg

For a little while the tribal deity and the belligerent dynast reign supreme.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• czar
• emperor
• king
• monarch
• shah
• sultan