isolated and helpless person; monarch's self-reference
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
(archaic) the solitary one; the orphan (humble self-reference used by ancient monarchs)
archaicHistorically used by emperors and kings as a humble self-deprecating term. '孤家' appears more frequently in traditional opera and drama.
Ancient emperors often called themselves 'the solitary one' to show humility.
In traditional opera, monarchs would begin speaking by calling themselves 'your lonely servant'.
noun
isolated and helpless person; one who is cut off from the masses
neutralModern metaphorical usage describing someone who has lost support, has no allies, or is completely isolated from others. Often carries a negative connotation implying self-inflicted isolation through arrogance or poor leadership.
He offended everyone and ended up completely isolated.
Leaders who become detached from the masses will only become isolated and helpless.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
In this unfamiliar city, he felt like an isolated soul with no one to turn to.
If you always act arbitrarily and dictatorially, sooner or later you'll end up isolated.