SOVEREIGN MISS ROYAL GLOSSARY

ARISTOCRACY:  The distinguished winners of each age division.  Their achievements are celebrated as they ascend to royal status, inspiring others with their accomplishments and setting the standard for excellence within the pageant community.
COURTIER:  Esteemed contestants who participate in the Sovereign Miss competition but may have not yet achieved a specific title or appointment within the royal hierarchy. (State titleholders)
CROWN JEWELS:  The crown, the scepter, the orb, the robe, the banner, Additional tiaras and jewelry pieces to wear to various events by the Sovereign.
DIADEM:  A jeweled crown worn as a symbol of sovereignty by a monarch or a ruler.

HERALDS:  In historical and royal contexts, heralds were official messengers who delivered important news, proclamations, and announcements on behalf of the monarchy or nobility. They played a crucial role in spreading tidings, communicating decrees, and organizing ceremonies or events.
HM:  Abbreviation for "His Majesty" or "Her Majesty".  It is a formal title used to address or refer to reigning monarchs, such as kings and queens. The title denotes the sovereign's supreme authority and status.
HRH:  Abbreviation for "Her Royal Highness"  It is a formal title used to address or refer to certain members of a royal family, such as The Crown Princess and other high-ranking royals.
HIERARCHY:  In the context of the Sovereign Miss pageant, a hierarchy helps define roles, duties, and levels of respect, ensuring that each person understands their place within the organization. It establishes clear lines of authority and fosters order, discipline, and a sense of tradition, making it easier to manage and honor the various ranks and positions.
INVESTITURE:  A formal ceremony or official process in which someone is given a position of authority, honor, or a special role. It involves the conferring of titles, ranks, badges, or other symbols of prestige.
LIVERY COLLAR:  A distinguished chain of honor, awarded exclusively to the outgoing Sovereign as a symbol of their noble service and unwavering loyalty.  It is worn on the shoulders.
LORD CHAMBERLAIN:  Master of Her Majesty's household who oversees royal ceremonies and events.
LUMINARA:  The name of our fictional kingdom, a realm of imagination and inspiration where the Grand Sovereign reigns.  Within the context of our pageant, Luminara represents a mythical land characterized by its radiant beauty, enlightened governance, and vibrant culture.  It's a place where imagination knows no bounds and where contestants can showcase their creativity, talent and poise as they aspire to embody the values and ideals of a Grand Sovereign.  Luminara serves as a symbol of the limitless possibilities and opportunities that await each contestant as they embark on their journey towards the crown.
MONARCH:  A sovereign head of state, especially a king, queen or Emperor.
MONARCHY:  The Monarch and royal family of a realm.  (The Grand Sovereign and Aristocracy)
NOBILITY:  Contestants who have achieved prestigious titles or appointments bestowed upon them by the Regent or Grand Sovereign, such as awards that accompany an elevated rank from Courtier to "Dame" or "Marchioness", etc.
ORB OF RENOWN:  An emblematic artifact bestowed upon the Sovereign of the realm, signifying her rightful authority and divine mandate to govern the kingdom.  It is entrusted to the Sovereign as a sacred duty to uphold the kingdom's values, protect its people and ensure a prosperous future for Sovereign Miss.
RANK OF AUTHORITY AND HOW TO ADDRESS: 

• Imperial Grand Sovereign:  Overall High-point score.  The highest-ranking female royal title, a Queen is either the reigning monarch. She holds supreme authority over a kingdom or realm.  Addressed as "Your Majesty".

• Crown Princess:  Awarded to the 2nd highest over-all score.  First runner-up to the Sovereign and holds a position of great honor and importance within the realm. As the second highest-ranking individual, the Crown Princess is next in line to ascend the throne should the Sovereign step down or be unable to fulfill her duties. This title signifies her role as the heir apparent, preparing her to take on leadership responsibilities and represent the values and traditions of the Sovereign Miss pageant.  Addressed as "Your Royal Highness"

• Duchess:  This title is bestowed upon the esteemed division winners within the Sovereign Miss pageant, representing excellence and distinction in their respective categories. As holders of this noble title, Duchesses embody the highest standards of poise, beauty, and achievement. They are celebrated for their outstanding performances and dedication, setting them apart as leaders among their peers.  Addressed as "Your Grace".

• Grand Marquess: A prestigious title awarded to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional excellence, leadership, and contribution within the Sovereign Miss pageant. This honor is typically reserved for the recipient of the Meritorious Order of Sovereign Excellence, often referred to as the Founder’s Award, recognizing those who have made a profound impact on the pageant and its community.  Addressed as "Your Excellency".

• Marchioness:  This rank signifies a distinguished level of achievement, highlighting the recipient's role in shaping the direction and spirit of the Sovereign Miss organization.  Addressed as "Your Ladyship".

• Countess:  This title signifies a high level of respect and acknowledgment, highlighting the recipient's role as a leader and role model.  Addressed as "Your Ladyship".

• Viscountess:  A rank in the Sovereign Miss pageant is awarded to those who exhibit a strong sense of duty, leadership, and positive influence within their community. Viscountesses are recognized for their commitment to fostering growth, unity, and collaboration among their peers.  Addressed as "Your Ladyship".

• Baroness:  This rank honors individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to their roles and a commitment to service within the community. Baronesses are appreciated for their supportive nature, organizational skills, and the positive atmosphere they help cultivate. This title reflects their contribution to the overall success and harmony of the pageant, highlighting their ability to encourage and uplift others.  Addressed as "Your Ladyship".

• Dame:  This honorary title signifies respect and admiration, highlighting the recipient’s role as a beacon of inspiration. As Dames, they uphold the values of the pageant with dignity, demonstrating a strong sense of purpose and honor.  Addressed as "Dame ___"

• Lady:  The title of Lady is granted to each courtier within the Sovereign Miss pageant, signifying their noble status and their role as key members of the court. As Ladies, they uphold the values of grace, elegance, and loyalty. They play important roles in supporting the hierarchy and contributing to the overall harmony and success of the pageant. The title of Lady embodies a sense of dignity and respect, marking each courtier as a valued and integral part of the Sovereign Miss community, dedicated to upholding its traditions and fostering a sense of unity and belonging.  Addressed as "Milady".

REALM:  A kingdom.  The Grand Sovereign's kingdom is "Luminara".
REGENT: In a monarchy, a regent is a person appointed to govern a state for the time being because the throne is vacant and the new monarch has not yet been determined.
REGINA:  Latin word for queen.

ROBE OF STATE:   A formal, luxurious garment worn by the Crown Princess during significant ceremonial occasions, symbolizing her authority, dignity, and status within the pageant.
ROYAL COFFER:  A chest which, traditionally, held valuables.
ROYAL COURT:  Extended royal household in a monarchy.  (Sovereign, Aristocracy, Nobility and Courtiers)
ROYAL CREST/COAT OF ARMS:  An identifying symbol of the sovereign. (Each Sovereign will have a unique coat of arms)
ROYAL MANTLE:  A garment worn by a sovereign as a symbol of authority. (Robe)
ROYAL STANDARD:  A flag which represents the reign of the sovereign. (Each Sovereign will have a unique standard)
SCEPTER OF AUTHORITY:  A distinguished symbol of governance and leadership wielded by the Sovereign, embodying her rightful command and authority over the kingdom.
SOVEREIGN:  A supreme ruler, especially a monarch. (Overall high-point score winner)