realms

Realm is a noun with several related meanings. Historically, a realm refers to a kingdom or sovereign state—an area ruled by a king or queen. More broadly, it denotes any domain, sphere, or jurisdiction in which authority is exercised or influence is felt. The term derives from Old French reaume or royaume, from Late Latin regnum, and is closely related to the concept of sovereignty and governance.

In political and constitutional contexts, the word is used in specific formulations such as "the realm" to describe the territories for which a monarch acts as head of state. In the modern era, "Commonwealth realms" refers to independent countries that share the British monarch as head of state, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

In literature, fantasy, and gaming, realms describe distinct settings or universes—often separated by magical barriers or alternate dimensions. Realms may be named worlds such as magical kingdoms, celestial planes, or parallel realities, and storytellers frequently use the term to indicate scope, scale, or authority within a narrative.

In philosophy and science, realm is used as a generic term for a realm of reality, possibility, or discourse. Phrases such as "the realm of reality" or "the realm of theoretical physics" illustrate the metaphorical use that extends beyond geography or governance.

Realms thus function across contexts as a flexible notion for territory, authority, and domain, ranging from political sovereignty to fictional settings and abstract domains of knowledge.