to change the reign title; dynastic change
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
to change the reign title; to designate a new era name
archaicA historical practice where a new emperor, or an emperor on a significant occasion, would proclaim a new reign title. The first year of a reign title is called '元年' (yuán nián).
Emperor Taizong of Tang changed the reign title to 'Zhenguan' after ascending the throne.
When a new emperor ascended the throne, the first major event was to change the reign title.
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In 1644 AD, the Qing dynasty was established and changed the reign title to 'Shunzhi'.
noun
the first year of a new reign title
archaicOften follows the verb usage, referring specifically to the inaugural year of a new era name.
The first year of Zhenguan marked the beginning of Emperor Taizong of Tang's reign.
Historians often use the change of reign titles to demarcate different periods of rule.