QUEEN REGNANT

PRONUNCIATION:

(kween REG-nuhnt)

MEANING:

noun: A queen reigning in her own right, as opposed to one having a royal title by marriage. Also known as queen regent.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Latin regnare (reign). Ultimately from the Indo-European root reg- (to move in a straight line, to lead or rule) that is also the source of regime, direct, rectangle, erect, rectum, alert, source, and surge.

The wife of a ruling king is known as a Queen Consort. The husband of a queen regnant would be a king consort, though usually he is called a prince.

A queen ruling during the youth, disability, or absence of a monarch is known as a Queen Regent.

Queen Regnants are we. We are the Queens of Our Selves. Self-knowing, Self-determining, Self-empowered, Self-ruling, Self-satisfied, Self- loving.

 My command stands firm like the mountains and

the sun disk shines and spreads rays over the

titulary of my august person, and my falcon rises

high above the kingly banner unto all eternity.

       -Hatshepsut, Egyptian Queen/Pharaoh

       1503-1482 BC

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Donna Henes is the author of The Queen of My Self: Stepping into Sovereignty in Midlife. She offers counseling and upbeat, practical and ceremonial guidance for individual women and groups who want to enjoy the fruits of an enriching, influential, purposeful, passionate, and powerful maturity. Consult the MIDLIFE MIDWIFE™

The Queen welcomes questions concerning all issues of interest to women in their mature years. Send your inquiries to thequeenofmyself@aol.com.