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noun Uncommon

prerogative

prih-ROG-uh-tihv

Prerogative (noun) means an exclusive right or privilege, often one attached to a particular rank, office, or position. Example: “Choosing the seating plan is the host's prerogative.”

noun
1
An exclusive right or privilege, often one attached to a particular rank, office, or position.
"Choosing the seating plan is the host's prerogative."
"Royal prerogative once let the monarch dissolve parliament unilaterally."

How to use prerogative

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA special right that belongs to someone because of who they are or the position they hold — it's their call, not yours.

Common pairings
it's her prerogative royal prerogative exercise a prerogative

Word forms

more prerogative comparative, prerogatives plural, most prerogative superlative

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Test yourself on “prerogative” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Choosing the seating plan is the host's _____.

Etymology

From Latin praerogativa, originally "the group asked to vote first" in the Roman assembly — later came to mean any special right or privilege.

Origin: Latin

privilege perquisite exclusive right

Related words

Rhymes for prerogative

See all rhymes for prerogative →

Frequently asked questions

What does “prerogative” mean?

The word “prerogative” means an exclusive right or privilege, often one attached to a particular rank, office, or position. In plain terms, a special right that belongs to someone because of who they are or the position they hold — it's their call, not yours.

How do you pronounce “prerogative”?

“Prerogative” is pronounced prih-ROG-uh-tihv (/pɹəˈɹɑɡ.ə.tɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “prerogative” in a sentence?

Here is “prerogative” used in a sentence: “Choosing the seating plan is the host's prerogative.”

What part of speech is “prerogative”?

“Prerogative” is a noun.

Where does the word “prerogative” come from?

The word “prerogative” comes from Latin. From Latin praerogativa, originally "the group asked to vote first" in the Roman assembly — later came to mean any special right or privilege.

Is “prerogative” a common word?

“Prerogative” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial