n.; pl. Regencies [ CF. F. régence, LL. regentia. See Regent, a. ] 1. The office of ruler; rule; authority; government. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Especially, the office, jurisdiction, or dominion of a regent or vicarious ruler, or of a body of regents; deputed or vicarious government. Sir W. Temple. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. A body of men intrusted with vicarious government; as, a regency constituted during a king's minority, absence from the kingdom, or other disability. [ 1913 Webster ] A council or regency consisting of twelve persons. Lowth. [ 1913 Webster ] |