coronation
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
- precoronation noun
- recoronation noun
Etymology
Origin of coronation
1350–1400; Middle English coronacio ( u ) n < Anglo-French coronation < Latin coronāt ( us ) crowned ( coronate ) + Middle French -ion- -ion
Explanation
A coronation is the ceremony when a new King (or Queen, let's not be sexist) is officially installed. A coronation is usually quite glitzy and full of pomp. A coronation is the public handing over of title and powers to a new monarch. Other almost identical terms are enthronement and investiture. The term coronation is also sometimes used in a light-hearted, though sometimes sarcastic way, to describe the ascension of famous non-royal people who have achieved a particular level of public status — such as pop stars, politicians or celebrities. Coronation is derived from the Latin word corona, meaning "crown."
Vocabulary lists containing coronation
25 Words from "Baseball and Black History"
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Queen of the Sea
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
"The Prince and the Pauper," Vocabulary from the drama
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It felt like the perfect coronation for the soon-to-be Olympic champion.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026
As Bedford conceded, her victories in 1429 on behalf of the dauphin, which finally enabled his coronation, fractured English morale.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026
Will there be a coronation or a contest?
From BBC • Feb. 9, 2026
His Roland Garros coronation in 2024 ensured he was the youngest to win Grand Slam titles on clay, grass and hard courts.
From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026
There are more knights at the edges of the crowd than there were when the coronation ceremony began.
From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
