noun
Uncommon
chamberlain
CHAYM-buh-lihn
Chamberlain (noun) means a senior official who manages the household or domestic affairs of a monarch or noble. Example: “The chamberlain announced the guests as they arrived at court.”
noun
1
A senior official who manages the household or domestic affairs of a monarch or noble.
"The chamberlain announced the guests as they arrived at court."
"The chamberlain made sure the king's household ran smoothly each day."
"In the play, the chamberlain carries a staff and gives orders to the servants."
How to use chamberlain
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA high-ranking official traditionally in charge of a royal or noble household.
Common pairings
lord chamberlain
royal chamberlain
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Word forms
- Plural
- chamberlains
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ announced the guests as they arrived at court.
Etymology
From Old French chamberlenc, ultimately from a Frankish word meaning "chamber" plus a suffix denoting an associated role.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for chamberlain
See all rhymes for chamberlain →Frequently asked questions
What does “chamberlain” mean?
The word “chamberlain” means a senior official who manages the household or domestic affairs of a monarch or noble. In plain terms, a high-ranking official traditionally in charge of a royal or noble household.
How do you pronounce “chamberlain”?
“Chamberlain” is pronounced CHAYM-buh-lihn (/ˈt͡ʃeɪmbɚlɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “chamberlain” in a sentence?
Here is “chamberlain” used in a sentence: “The chamberlain announced the guests as they arrived at court.”
What part of speech is “chamberlain”?
“Chamberlain” is a noun.
Where does the word “chamberlain” come from?
The word “chamberlain” comes from Old French. From Old French chamberlenc, ultimately from a Frankish word meaning "chamber" plus a suffix denoting an associated role.
Is “chamberlain” a common word?
“Chamberlain” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What does a chamberlain actually do?
A chamberlain is a senior official responsible for managing the household or domestic affairs of a monarch or noble. Historically this included overseeing staff, finances, and the day-to-day running of a royal or noble residence.
Is chamberlain still used as a title today?
The title survives mainly in ceremonial or historical contexts, such as the Lord Chamberlain in the British royal household, rather than in everyday modern usage. Most people encounter it in historical, literary, or ceremonial references.
Is chamberlain the same as a butler?
No, a chamberlain typically held a higher, more administrative role overseeing an entire noble or royal household, while a butler traditionally managed household staff and duties at a more operational level. Chamberlain implies greater rank and responsibility.
