divine right of kings
noun
the doctrine that the right of rule derives directly from God, not from the consent of the people.
Also called
divine right.
Origin of divine right of kings
First recorded in 1735–45
Words nearby divine right of kings
divine healing,
divine liturgy,
divine mind,
divine mother,
divine office,
divine right of kings,
divine service,
diviner,
diving beetle,
diving bell,
diving board
British Dictionary definitions for divine right of kings
divine right of kings
noun
history
the concept that the right to rule derives from God and that kings are answerable for their actions to God alone
Cultural definitions for divine right of kings
divine right of kings
The doctrine that kings and queens have a God-given right to rule and that rebellion against them is a sin. This belief was common through the seventeenth century and was urged by such kings as Louis xiv of France. (See absolute monarchy.)