Are you looking for an answer to the question how to describe a king in a story? There are 10 words below that will help you describe a king that commands authority.
1. Majestic
Definition
Regal, grandiose; having an impressive presence.
Examples
“Our majestic king walked down the grand hallway, his cape trailing behind him.”
“The king’s voice was majestic, booming through the throne room as he addressed his subjects.”
How it Adds Description
The word “majestic” adds a sense of awe and admiration when describing a king. It conveys his grandeur and stateliness. It can be used to portray a king who is powerful, dignified, and revered by his subjects, making him a formidable presence. This type of reference could be used to depict the type of king who inspires troops before battle and instills fear in his enemies.
2. Benevolent
Definition
Kind, compassionate; well-meaning and thoughtful.
Examples
“The benevolent king was loved by his people for his generosity and fairness.”
“The king’s benevolent smile put his subjects at ease, even in times of crisis.”
How it Adds Description
The word “benevolent” can be used to describe a king as someone generous, empathetic, and courteous to his subjects. It depicts a king who is appreciated by his people and is considered a just ruler. This sort of king may inspire his subjects to act similarly for the greater good or lead to him forgiving his enemy to pave the way for a peaceful revolution to a conflict.
3. Ruthless
Definition
Brutal, callous; showing no pity or compassion.
Examples
“The ruthless king would do anything to maintain his power, including sacrificing his subjects.”
“The king’s ruthless reputation struck fear into the hearts of his enemies.”
How it Adds Description
The word “ruthless” implies that the king is merciless toward anyone who stands in the way of his desires. It can be used to show that a king is feared by both friends and foes, paving the way for conflict from those who want to overthrow him, avoid his wrath, or make choices out of fear. Being ruthless may result in him meeting his ruin or achieving even greater power.
4. Wise
Definition
Intelligent, knowledgeable; possessing experience, skill, and good judgment.
Examples
“The wise king was sought out by his advisors for his insights and strategic thinking.”
“The king’s wise decision-making saved his kingdom from certain doom.”
How it Adds Description
The word “wise” communicates that the king is smart, perceptive, and capable of making sound decisions. It may be used to show that the king is revered by his advisors and that his counsel is sought by his subjects. A wise king can lead his people in the right direction and avoid obstacles to their well-being. He will be trusted to lead without question.
5. Arrogant
Definition
Proud, conceited; having an exaggerated sense of one’s importance.
Examples
“The arrogant king believed that he was above everyone else in the kingdom.”
“The king’s arrogant behavior caused resentment among his subjects.”
How it Adds Description
The word “arrogant” can be used to illustrate that a king is full of self-importance and dismissive of others. This is a king who will listen to no one because he believes only he knows best. It can be used to represent that the king is disliked by both his citizens and his rivals, leading to his downfall at the hands of them or paving the way for a rebellion from his people.
6. Magnanimous
Definition
Generous, forgiving; charitable, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful.
Examples
“The magnanimous king forgave his enemy and spared his life.”
“The king’s magnanimous gestures towards his subjects was part of why he was adored.”
How it Adds Description
The word “magnanimous” describes a king who is generous and forgiving, earning him the respect of all who know him. His nature may lead him to create positive changes such as forming alliances with other kingdoms or resolving conflicts across the lands. He will likely create unity and peace during his reign and may be greatly mourned in death.
7. Impulsive
Definition
Spontaneous, rash; acting without forethought.
Examples
“The impulsive king made decisions based on his emotions rather than logic, often to the detriment of his kingdom.”
“The king’s impulsive behavior made his advisors nervous, as they never knew what he might do next.”
How it Adds Description
The word “impulsive” suggests that the king is prone to acting without careful thought or consideration of the consequences. This could be used to reveal that the king is unpredictable and whose actions may lead to unexpected plot twists. The king’s impulsiveness may be a source of conflict, but it may also lead to creative solutions to problems.
8. Regal
Definition
Majestic, royal; being stately or dignified.
Examples
“The regal king sat on his throne, exuding an air of power and authority.”
“The king’s regal attire and demeanor left a lasting impression on those who met him.”
How it Adds Description
The word “regal” relates that a king embodies the qualities of royalty, such as dignity, grace, and poise. It can be used to portray a king whose very appearance commands respect. It can be used in reference to a king who looks appropriate for the part he plays whether he can actually perform his duties successfully or is merely a figurehead who may be revealed as inferior.
9. Decadent
Definition
Indulgent, extravagant; taken with excessive luxury.
Examples
“The decadent king spent lavishly on his pleasures, ignoring the needs of his people.”
“The king’s decadent lifestyle was a symbol of the excesses of the ruling class.”
How it Adds Description
The word “decadent” paints a picture of a king who indulges in luxury and excess, even if it is at the expense of others’ well-being. It may illustrate that a king whose extravagant habits and lifestyle have led to economic instability or social unrest. The king’s decadent nature may be a source of ire for his kingdom, leading to his demise.
10. Noble
Definition
Honorable, virtuous; having high moral principles and ideals.
Examples
“The noble king was the epitome of how a man of his stature should conduct himself.”
“The king’s noble deeds earned him a place in the hearts of all who knew him.”
How it Adds Description
The word “noble” relays that the king embodies the virtues of honor, integrity, and courage. It can be used to depict a king who is respected and admired by his subjects for his moral character and sense of duty. Such a king will have no problem when it comes to the support of his kingdom and cooperation from other people in his realm.