prerogative
/pɹɪˈɹɒɡ.ə.tɪv/
prerogative means having a hereditary or official right or privilege.
Among words judged in Lexicurio's Arena, prerogative ranks #2,309 of 14,431 for Most Betrayed by Its Sound, #2,328 of 14,438 for Most Storied Words, #3,554 of 14,410 for Most Ponderous Words, #7,084 of 14,414 for Most Elegant Words.
prerogative is pronounced /pɹɪˈɹɒɡ.ə.tɪv/.
Why “prerogative” is a great word
An exclusive right or privilege, especially one inherent in a particular office, position, or status. Its lineage is one of precedence, from the Latin *prae-* ("before") and *rogāre* ("to ask"), denoting the one whose voice is solicited first. Unlike "privilege" (a general advantage) or "right" (a universal entitlement), a prerogative is a specific, often sovereign, power granted by role. It is the monarch’s signature dissolving a parliament, the general’s command to stand down, or the editor’s final, unappealable strike of a pen—a silent sphere of authority where discretion is absolute and answerable to no one.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman prerogative (noun), from Latin praerogātīva (“previous verdict; claim, privilege”), noun use of the feminine singular of praerogātīvus (“having first vote; privileged”).
adj
- Having a hereditary or official right or privilege.
- Characterized by lawless state actions, as in a prerogative state.
noun
- An exclusive hereditary or official right or privilege.
- A right, or power that is exclusive to a monarch etc, especially such a power to make a decision or judgement.e.g.“Despite being a constitutional monarchy, the British sovereign still retain many royal prerogatives.”
- A right, especially when due to one's position or role.
- A property, attribute or ability which gives one a superiority or advantage over others; an inherent advantage or privilege; a talent.
Words closest in meaning
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