Wordxplr

The meaning and origin of interesting English phrases

Royal Command

Meaning

A directive or order issued directly by a reigning monarch, carrying the weight of their sovereign authority.

Origin

Throughout history, the monarch's word was often law, a direct expression of their power. The phrase "Royal Command" harks back to an era where kings and queens held absolute sway, their wishes instantly translating into action across their realms. Unlike a parliamentary act or a government decision, a royal command was a personal directive, often issued directly to an individual or group, bypassing bureaucratic layers. This direct, often personal, nature of the command underscored the monarch's ultimate authority, whether commissioning a portrait, demanding a new fortress, or summoning a performer, making the phrase a potent symbol of sovereign will.

Examples

  • The celebrated pianist was summoned to perform at the palace by royal command, a great honor for his career.
  • The architect received a royal command to design the new wing of the castle, a task he undertook with immense pride.
← All phrases