Etymology Map
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Majesty

3 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means impressive dignity; title for a monarch

Where does the word "majesty" come from? It comes from Latin majestas, passing through Old French before entering English (1300s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
majestas
Latin · ancient
"greatness"
related to 'major', greater
2
Stage 2 of 3
majesté
Old French · medieval
"sovereign dignity"
used as a form of address to monarchs
3
Stage 3 of 3
majesty
English · 1300s
"greatness; royal title"
'Your Majesty' became standard for English monarchs under Henry VIII
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Read the full story

Majesty’s story begins in Latin: majestas meant “greatness.” Related to 'major', greater. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as majesté. Used as a form of address to monarchs. It reached English by 1300s as majesty. 'Your Majesty' became standard for English monarchs under Henry VIII. Today, majesty means impressive dignity; title for a monarch.