Legal Definitions - queen dowager

A queen dowager is the widow of a king. This title is held by a woman who was married to a reigning monarch (a king) and retains her royal status after his death, even though she no longer holds the position of queen consort (the wife of a reigning king) and does not reign herself. Her status is derived solely from her marriage to the deceased king.

• Imagine a fictional kingdom where King Theron passes away. His wife, Queen Lyra, subsequently becomes the queen dowager. Their eldest son, Prince Kael, then ascends to the throne. Queen Lyra, as the widow of the late King Theron, continues to be recognized with royal honors and status, even though she is no longer the reigning queen consort and does not rule the kingdom. She holds this title by virtue of her marriage to the deceased monarch.

• Consider a historical European monarchy where King Wilhelm dies without any children. His wife, Queen Astrid, becomes the queen dowager. The throne then passes to King Wilhelm's younger brother, Prince Erik. Queen Astrid retains her royal title and privileges as the widow of the former king, even though her own offspring did not inherit the crown. Her status as a queen dowager acknowledges her past role as a monarch's wife.