realm

[relm]

noun

1. a royal domain; kingdom.

   the realm of England.

2. the region, sphere, or domain within which anything occurs, prevails, or dominates.

   the realm of dreams.

3. the special province or field of something or someone.

   the realm of physics; facts within the realm of political scientists.

realm

/ rɛlm /

noun

1. a royal domain; kingdom (now chiefly in such phrases as Peer of the Realm )

2. a field of interest, study, etc

   the realm of the occult

Other Word Forms

• underrealm noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of realm¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English realme, reaume, Old French reialme, from Latin regimen “guidance, direction, rule,” influenced by Old French reial “royal” ( royal )

Word History and Origins

Origin of realm¹

C13: from Old French reialme , from Latin regimen rule, influenced by Old French reial royal, from Latin rēgālis _regal ¹

Synonym Study

See kingdom.

Example Sentences

One minister acknowledged the elections would be tough and speculated that a leadership challenge before then may not be beyond the realms of possibility.

From BBC

When suffering is measured, it becomes harder to dismiss; when it is left uncounted, it drifts back into the realm of anecdote, where policymakers can insist the problem is exaggerated, isolated or even imaginary.

From Salon

“It felt dangerous in a beautiful way,” described Stern, placing the group and their ethos firmly within the realm of Beyond Fest.

From Los Angeles Times

Ever the realm of the possible, for those willing to hang on for the ride.

From Los Angeles Times

Charcuterie might sound “fancy” in the realm of tailgate food, but trust me it’s the easiest thing to put together and your guests are sure to be impressed.

From Salon

Related Words

• dimension 
• domain 
• field 
• sphere 
• territory 
• world