1. a government by seven rulers
2. the seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms that existed in England from the 5th to 9th centuries
Usage: historical

Examples

• The ancient heptarchy consisted of seven equal rulers sharing power.
• Students learned about the Anglo-Saxon heptarchy in medieval history class.
• The heptarchy period ended when Wessex became the dominant kingdom.
• Each kingdom in the heptarchy had its own king and territory.
• The concept of heptarchy describes rule by exactly seven leaders.
• Mercia was one of the most powerful kingdoms in the English heptarchy.