Pronunciation: [ɹˈɛtɪnjˌuː] (IPA) 
The word "retinue" is spelled with a silent 'u' after the 't', and the final 'e' is pronounced as a schwa sound. The IPA phonetic transcription of "retinue" is /ˈrɛt.ɪn.juː/. The word refers to a group of people who accompany an important person, typically a monarch or leader. In historical contexts, a retinue was often composed of servants, soldiers, and other attendants who attended to the needs of the leader.
Retinue is a noun that refers to a group of people who accompany and serve an important or influential individual, typically in a formal or official capacity. It denotes the entourage or support staff that is dedicated to assisting and catering to the needs of a person of high social status, such as a monarch, dignitary, or celebrity.
A retinue typically includes individuals from various roles or professions, such as bodyguards, personal assistants, secretaries, advisors, valets, chamberlains, maids, butlers, cooks, and other attendants. These individuals are chosen for their skills and expertise in their respective domains and are responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of the person's daily affairs.
The size and composition of a retinue may vary depending on the person's rank or position, with greater importance or power often correlating to a larger and more diverse entourage. In historical contexts, retinues were especially prevalent among medieval rulers and aristocracy, where a lord would have a retinue of knights, squires, ministers, and other followers who pledged their loyalty and service.
In a broader sense, "retinue" can also encompass a group of loyal supporters, followers, or admirers who surround and support someone, not necessarily in a formal or official manner. This secondary definition highlights the emotional and social connections that bind an individual to their retinue, emphasizing the sense of loyalty and devotion present within the group.
The attendants of a person of distinction, chiefly on a journey; a train of persons.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "retinue" derives from the Middle English term "retinewe", which was borrowed from the Old French word "retenu" or "retinue". In turn, the Old French term comes from the Late Latin word "retinuere", meaning "to retain". The concept of retaining refers to the practice of an important person or aristocrat hiring or keeping a group of attendants or followers for various purposes, such as protection, service, or demonstration of status. Over time, the word "retinue" has evolved to encompass the group of individuals who accompany and serve someone of higher rank or position.
