Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
Carolingian dynasty

Carolingian dynasty

9.9
A Frankish royal family that ruled much of western Europe from 751 to 987
  • noun
  • /ˌkɛrəˈlɪndʒən ˈdaɪnəsti/
translation icon : dinastía carolingia
  • The realm of the Franks under the Carolingian dynasty started to decline after the death of Charlemagne in 814 and split into three kingdoms in 843.

Examples

  • The Carolingian dynasty played a crucial role in shaping modern Europe during its reign from 751 to 987.

  • Charlemagne, a key figure of the Carolingian dynasty, expanded his empire through conquests and alliances.

  • After the Carolingian dynasty fell, several smaller kingdoms emerged in Western Europe, marking a significant shift in political power.

Synonyms

Carlovingian dynasty
vsCarolingian dynasty
9.9

A family of Frankish kings who ruled parts of Europe from 751 to 987

has identical meaning but uses an alternate historical spelling

Surface Forms

Carolingian dynasty singular

Morphology

Carolingian + dynasty

The structure is compositionally transparent as 'dynasty of the Carolingians'—the noun 'dynasty' plus the proper adjective 'Carolingian' clearly signals a ruling family. However, 'Carolingian' is a historical/proper term that requires specific world-knowledge (Charlemagne/the Carolingians and the relevant period) that a B1 learner may not have. Therefore the phrase is partially predictable from its parts but not fully understandable without encyclopedic knowledge.

Etymology

Carolingian dynasty: The name Carolingian dynasty comes from the old Latin name for Charles, 'Carolus'. So Carolingian means 'of Charles' and dynasty means 'a ruling family'. That is why the phrase refers to the Frankish royal family started by Charlemagne's father that ruled much of Western Europe.