Overkings

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A ruler with authority over other kings, typically holding a superior or higher rank
2. A sovereign who governs multiple kingdoms, exercising control over lesser monarchs
3. An emperor or supreme ruler who holds dominion over various royal leaders and their territories

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon England had a related title, "bretwalda," which the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle applies to rulers such as Æthelberht of Kent and Penda of Mercia. These kings were recognised as holding authority over other kings south of the Humber. The title joins "Bret," for Britain, with "wealda," meaning ruler, and it described an overlordship that often shifted and rarely lasted. The English compound is plain: "over," meaning above or superior, joined to "king." Its Old English ancestor, "ofercyning," likely meant the same thing, a king set above other kings. The form appears in English writing from the Middle Ages, and it is most often used for a ruler whose power extends over several smaller kingdoms.