crown
UK[kraʊn]US[kraʊn]
n
a circular ornamental headdress worn by a monarch as a symbol of authority, usually made of or decorated with precious metals and jewels.
n
the top or highest part of something, such as a head, hill, or hat.
v
to place a crown ceremonially on the head of (someone) to formally invest them as a monarch.
v
to be the triumphant culmination of (an effort or endeavor, especially a successful career).
Etymology
the word "crown" entered english in the 12th century from the anglo-norman "coroune" and old french "corone," which themselves stemmed from the latin "corona," meaning "garland, wreath, crown." latin borrowed this term from the greek "korōnē," which originally signified anything curved or bent, like a garland, and was related to the greek word "korōnos" (curved). the core semantic journey is from the concrete concept of a curved wreath, a symbol of honor or victory in antiquity, to the specific regal headpiece representing sovereign power, and finally extending metaphorically to signify the top or pinnacle of any object or achievement.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form derived as a whole from anglo-norman and old french.
Examples
the queen's crown was adorned with diamonds and rubies.
we finally reached the crown of the hill and enjoyed the magnificent view.
his victory in the championship crowned a decade of relentless dedication to the sport.