Ex-king/queen/emperor/empress

An 'ex-king/queen/emperor/empress' refers to a monarch who has previously held the position of ruler of a kingdom, empire, or other sovereign state, but is no longer in power. This can occur through abdication (voluntary relinquishment of the throne), deposition (removal from power, often by force), death, or, in some constitutional monarchies, the abolishment of the monarchy itself. The individual still carries the title and holds significant historical importance, but they typically no longer have political authority. Their influence is often felt in remembrance, history, and cultural spheres. The term emphasizes a past role, contrasting with their current state of being outside of active governance and often focuses on the loss of their role as rulers.

Ex-king/queen/emperor/empress meaning with examples

• After decades of rule, the ex-emperor of the fallen empire was exiled to a remote island. He retained his title but lived a quiet life, stripped of his former power and influence, a shadow of his former glory, although he was a beloved memory. He was, though, forever a part of his people's history.
• Queen Isabella II was considered an ex-queen after she was forced into exile during the Glorious Revolution. Her life after the throne was marked by continued claim to her position but lack of any real power.
• The museum held a special exhibit about the life of the ex-king, the last of a powerful royal family. The artifacts showed the extravagant life and power he once possessed, a sharp contrast to his current status.
• Following the revolution, the new government granted the ex-emperor a pardon, allowing him to return, though no longer in charge. This shows how the role is defined in society.
• Despite their loss of power, the ex-empress's charitable foundations still carried significant influence within their region, a legacy that lived on long after the downfall of their reign, reminding everyone of their former power.