- reign (n.)
- early 13c., "kingdom," from Old French reigne "kingdom, land, country" (Modern French règne), from Latin regnum "kingship, dominion, rule, realm," related to regere "to rule, to direct, keep straight, guide" (see regal). Meaning "period of rule" first recorded mid-14c.
- reign (v.)
- "to hold or exercise sovereign power," late 13c., from Old French regner "rule, reign" (12c.), from Latin regnare "have royal power, be king, rule, reign," from regnum "kingship, dominion, rule, realm," related to regere "to rule, to direct, keep straight, guide" (see regal). Related: Reigned; reigning; regnal.
