Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun, plural an·ciens ré·gimes [ahn-syan rey-zheem] /ɑ̃ syɛ̃ reɪˈʒim/. French.
- the political and social system of France before the revolution of 1789.
- the system of government during this period.
noun plural anciens régimes (ɑ̃sjɛ̃ reʒim)
- the political and social system of France before the Revolution of 1789
- a former or outdated regime
1794, from French ancien régime, literally “old rule,” referring to the government and social order of France before the Revolution there. See ancient + regime.
The political and social order that prevailed in France before the French Revolution, built on a belief in absolute monarchy and the divine right of kings.