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.

---

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

Explanation

A scepter is a ceremonial staff, often used by kings. With its jewels and ornamentation, a scepter is a symbol of power. Scepter is related to a Greek verb that means to prop oneself or lean on something. That makes sense, since a scepter is something a ruler can lean on, like any other staff. However, you won't find an ordinary citizen with a scepter. If the President started carrying a scepter, people would probably get worried; it would suggest that he is thinking of himself as a king.

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

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

On Saturday, the scepter will be handed to Charles as a symbol of his temporal power.

From Seattle Times • May 5, 2023

Camilla could take a cue from that dove of peace on the other scepter and refuse to carry the ivory scepter, as a peacemaking gesture to her stepson.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2023

He pulled the scepter of Diocletian from his belt.

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan