Kingdom
UK /["/ˈkɪŋdəm/"]/US /["/ˈkɪŋdəm/"]/
Definition
a country that has a king or queen as head of state (= official leader of the country)
In simple words: A large area ruled by a king or queen.
Examples
- the United Kingdom
- the kingdom of God *(= heaven)*
- He ruled the ancient kingdom of Kaffa.
- It was one of the richest towns in the kingdom.
- changes that were taking place throughout the kingdom
- the animal, vegetable and mineral kingdoms
- The truck was blown to kingdom come.
- He’ll talk till kingdom come if you let him.
Usage notes
Used in historical contexts or when discussing monarchy. Not used in casual conversation about non-monarchic subjects.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'king' ruling over a 'dome'-shaped land.
Collocations
- independent
- ancient
- medieval
- rule
- inherit
- in a/the kingdom
- throughout a/the kingdom
- kingdom of
- independent
- ancient
- medieval
- rule
- inherit
- in a/the kingdom
- throughout a/the kingdom
- kingdom of
Synonyms
- realm
- empire
- domain
- territory
- nation
Antonyms
- republic
- commonwealth
- anarchy
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'kingdoms' vs 'kingdom's' (possessive form)
- Using 'kingdom' in contexts where 'country' would be more appropriate
- Mispronouncing as 'king-dome' instead of 'king-dum'