Coregent

/koʊˈriːdʒənt/ noun

Definition

One of two or more rulers or governors who share power equally and rule together.

Etymology

From 'co-' (together) + 'regent' (from Latin 'regens' ruling, one who rules). The term became common in medieval and early modern European monarchy.

Kelly Says

When a king died leaving a child heir, a coregent would often be appointed to rule alongside the young monarch—this protected the kingdom from chaos while teaching the child how to rule, and it's why you see so many 'Lord Protectors' and 'co-rulers' in history.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Historically, 'regent' and 'corregent' referenced male rulers; female counterparts often received marked forms ('queen regent' vs. 'regent').

Inclusive Usage

Use 'coregent' neutrally for any actor; avoid gendered qualifiers.

Inclusive Alternatives

["coruler","coadministrator"]

Empowerment Note

Historical corregents included women; restore their titles using unmarked 'coregent' to parallel their male contemporaries.

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