Definition of reign noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning , pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Reign : A Comprehensive Overview Last Update: 2025-03-08 10:54:37 Meaning and Definitions The word " reign " carries a significant weight, typically referring to the period of time a sovereign (such as a king, queen, emperor, or empress) rules a country or territory. At its core, it denotes the act of governing or ruling with authority and power. Beyond this central definition , " reign " can also be used figuratively to describe a situation where a particular principle, quality, or influence is ... Reign means the period of time when a monarch rules or has influence, or the exercise of sovereign power. Learn how to use reign correctly, avoid common confusions with rain and rein, and find synonyms and examples. What does reign mean ? As a verb, reign most commonly means “to rule with sovereign power or authority, like a king or queen does,” as in Llewellyn the Great reigned over Wales. As a noun, it can refer to the period during which a sovereign rules or occupies the throne, as in The Queen’s reign lasted for decades.