as in ruler
one who rules over a people with a sole, supreme, and usually hereditary authority
Charles inherited the position of potentate of the Holy Roman Empire from his grandfather, as well that of king of Spain from his father
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of potentate
A number of sports potentates will be making the Idaho scene, at a moment when tens of billions of dollars are changing hands in pursuit of ever-valuable rights.
—
Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 10 July 2024
This was a violin in full command of its considerable powers, a violin capable of enchanting the most powerful potentate in the land and persuading him to do its bidding.
—Mary Carole McCauley, Baltimore Sun, 24 June 2024
This must remain a country that rejects princes or potentates.
—Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 9 Jan. 2024
Maybe bringing in the charity will boost the power of a local potentate.
—Leif Wenar, WIRED, 27 Mar. 2024
See All Example Sentences for potentate
Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 10 July 2024
This was a violin in full command of its considerable powers, a violin capable of enchanting the most powerful potentate in the land and persuading him to do its bidding.
—Mary Carole McCauley, Baltimore Sun, 24 June 2024
This must remain a country that rejects princes or potentates.
—Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 9 Jan. 2024
Maybe bringing in the charity will boost the power of a local potentate.
—Leif Wenar, WIRED, 27 Mar. 2024
See All Example Sentences for potentate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potentate
Noun
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In addition to claiming the second-most No. 1s of all time, Linkin Park has also scored multiple long-running rulers.—
Hugh McIntyre,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2025
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With your planetary ruler, Saturn, entering Aries and your fourth house of home and family, you’re being called to tend to your personal life.—
Valerie Mesa,
People.com,
26 May 2025
Noun
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The name is inspired by the Spanish royal family’s practice of gifting pairs of merino sheep to other monarchs to honor its relationships.—
Martino Carrera,
Footwear News,
29 May 2025
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Charles has signaled his support for Canada recently, but the monarch faces a tricky balancing act as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working to keep Trump onside over Ukraine and trade ties.—
Nicole Fallert,
USA Today,
28 May 2025
Noun
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Archie and Lilibet were afforded the titles of prince and princess as grandchildren of the sovereign when King Charles acceded in September 2022 and the confirmation came upon Princess Lilibet's christening in March 2023.—
Janine Henni,
People.com,
4 June 2025
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Historically, diplomats served as messengers between sovereigns.—
Majeed Javdani,
Forbes.com,
3 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Potentate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potentate. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.
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