PRINCE, noun prins. [Latin princeps.]

1. In a general sense, a sovereign; the chief and independent ruler of a nation or state. Thus when we speak of the princes of Europe, we include emperors and kings. Hence, a chief in general; as a prince of the celestial host.

2. A sovereign in a certain territory; one who has the government of a particular state or territory, but holds of a superior to whom he owes certain services; as the princes of the German states.

3. The son of a king or emperor, or the issue of a royal family; as princes of the blood. In England, the eldest son of the king is created prince of Wales.

4. The chief of any body of men.

5. A chief or ruler of either sex. Queen Elizabeth is called by Camden prince but this application is unusual and harsh.

PRINCE of the senate, in ancient Rome, was the person first called in the roll of senators. He was always of consular and censorian

dignity.

In Scripture, this name prince is given to God, Daniel 8:11; to Christ, who is called the prince of peace, Isaiah 9:6, and the prince of life, Acts 3:15; to the chief of the priests, the prince of the sanctuary, Isaiah 43:28; to the Roman emperor, Daniel 9:25; to men of superior worth and excellence, Ecclesiastes 10:7; to nobles, counselors and officers of a kingdom, Isa 10; to the chief men of families or tribes, Numbers 17:6; to Satan, who is called the prince of this world, John 12:31., and prince of the power of the air, Ephesians 2:2.

PRINCE, verb intransitive To play the prince; to take state.