To enthrone someone means to formally install them as a king, queen, or other ruler by placing them on a throne during an official ceremony. When a new monarch is enthroned, they sit on the throne for the first time as the legitimate ruler, usually surrounded by nobles, religious leaders, and crowds of witnesses. The ceremony marks the moment when their reign officially begins.

The word comes from “throne,” the special ceremonial chair that symbolizes royal power and authority. Throughout history, enthronement ceremonies have been grand occasions with specific rituals: crowns placed on heads, scepters handed over, and oaths sworn. When Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in 1953, millions watched the ceremony. When ancient pharaohs were enthroned in Egypt, priests conducted elaborate religious rites.

People also use enthrone figuratively to mean giving someone or something supreme importance or power. A coach might accidentally enthrone winning above fair play, making victory more important than good sportsmanship. A family might enthrone a tradition, treating it as unquestionably sacred. When you enthrone an idea, you place it at the very top of what you value, giving it authority over other considerations.