INVESTITURE Meaning and
Definition
-
Investiture is a noun that refers to the formal act or ceremony of conferring a title, position, or honor upon an individual, typically involving the presentation of a symbolic object or attire as a mark of authority or membership. It can also describe the apparel or regalia that is worn during such an event. This term is commonly used to describe the ceremony where a monarch or official is officially installed or sworn into office.
In a broader sense, investiture can also signify the act of investing or endowing someone with power or authority, often in the context of granting ownership, control, or rights over a particular entity, such as a business or property. It implies the act of entrusting someone with a specific responsibility or task, usually accompanied by the transfer of assets, resources, or privileges.
Historically, investitures held great significance, particularly during medieval times when feudal lords would grant fiefs or estates to vassals in exchange for their allegiance and military service. The investiture ceremony would mark the formal transfer of land and rights, solidifying the bond between the lord and the vassal.
In contemporary usage, investiture commonly refers to the installment of high-ranking officials, such as judges, government officials, or religious leaders. It reflects the formal process through which individuals receive their official positions, acknowledging the authority and duties that come with the role.
-
The act or right of giving legal possession; as applied to a R. Cath. Bishop, the act of giving the ring and crosier, the external signs of his dignity and office.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for INVESTITURE
Etymology of INVESTITURE
The word "investiture" has its origins in Latin. It comes from the verb "investire", which means "to clothe" or "to dress". The Latin term was derived from the prefix "in-" meaning "into" and "vestire" meaning "to clothe". Over time, the term "investiture" evolved to refer to the act of formally bestowing or granting a position, title, or authority upon someone, as if clothing them with the responsibilities and privileges associated with it.
Similar spelling words for INVESTITURE
- investigation,
- invested with,
- invested,
- investigative,
- investigatory,
- investor,
- infeasible,
- investment,
- investigate,
- investigator,
- investing,
- infested,
- investigating.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
