Plural of diadem; ornamental headbands or crowns worn by rulers and nobility as symbols of power and rank.
From Greek diadema (διάδημα), meaning 'to bind around,' from dia- (through) + dein (to bind). Originally referred to the Persian royal headdress, and evolved to mean any crown or royal headpiece.
The diadem was so important to Persian kings that Alexander the Great famously wore one after conquering Persia—it was like wearing your opponent's ultimate status symbol to claim their throne!
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