regency

A regency is a period when a person temporarily rules or governs on behalf of a monarch or leader who is unable to do so, often due to age, illness, or absence. It typically involves a designated regent, an appointed official or family member, who exercises authority and makes decisions until the rightful ruler can resume their duties. For example, a young king might have a regent govern until he comes of age. The regency ensures continuity of leadership while the official ruler is unable to actively govern.