SCEP'TER, n. [L. sceptrum; Gr. from to send or thrust; coinciding with L. scipio, that is, a shoot or rod.]
1. A staff or batoon borne by kings on solemn occasions, as a badge of authority. Hence,
2. The appropriate ensign of royalty; an ensign of higher antiquity than the crown. Hence,
3. Royal power or authority; as, to assume the scepter.
The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, till Shiloh come. Gen 49.
4. A constellation.
SCEP'TER, v.t. To invest with royal authority, or with the ensign of authority.
