scepter

American  

[sep-ter] / ˈsɛp tər /

especially British, sceptre

noun

1. a rod or wand borne in the hand as an emblem of regal or imperial power.

2. royal or imperial power or authority; sovereignty.

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verb (used with object)

1. to give a scepter to; invest with authority.

Other Word Forms

• scepterless adjective
• sceptral adjective
• unsceptered adjective

Etymology

Origin of scepter

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English (s)ceptre, from Old French, from Latin scēptrum, from Greek skêptron “staff”; akin to shaft

Example Sentences

It holds a serpent scepter evoking the crack of lightning on one side, and a tiny water jug on the other.

From Reuters • Sep. 29, 2023

While she holds her cedarwood scepter close to her heart, she says that she also hopes to lead by example and inspire other Chatina women to follow her path.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 25, 2023

Mr. Modi, surrounded by a dozen Hindu priests, carried the scepter down the aisle of the new Parliament, installing it to the right of the speaker’s seat.

From New York Times • May 28, 2023

The dove one — Edward the Confessor’s symbol — is nice enough, but that scepter with the cross will knock your eye out.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2023

I held my twiggy walking stick like a scepter, chin tilted towards the ashy sky.

From "The Marrow Thieves" by Cherie Dimaline