Definition of the word majesty

The word "majesty" originated from the Old French term "maiesté," which in turn derived from the Latin 'maiestas.' "Maiestas" referred to the concept of the supreme power, grandeur, and dignity associated with a monarch or ruler. In Latin, words like "maiore" (greater), "magnus" (great), and "estas" (becomes) were combined to create the term "maiestas," emphasizing the idea that power, grandeur, and dignity become greater when vested in a ruler. The term spread to Old French and then to Middle English, where it acquired various forms (like "majeste" and "majeeste") before settling into its modern English pronunciation and spelling of "majesty." Today, "majesty" still signifies the royal dignity, honor, and splendor of a king, queen, or other monarchic figure.