Regency (noun)

A period during which a ruler is a minor or is absent and government is carried on by a deputy.

Origin:

Late 16th century: from french régence, from régent "ruler", from latin regens, regent- "governing".

Examples:

1. The Prince served as regent during the King's absence.
2. The Queen's regency began when she was 18 years old.
3. During the regency, the country was ruled by a council of nobles.
4. The regency was marked by political turmoil and economic hardship.
5. The end of the regency was marked by the King's coming of age and assumption of full powers.