pharaohs

Refers to the supreme rulers of ancient Egypt, who were considered kings and gods. The term is derived from the Egyptian "per-aa," meaning "great house," and originally referred to the royal palace. The term was used as a synonym or title of respect for the Egyptian king beginning in the New Kingdom, from the 18th dynasty (1539-1292 BCE) onwards. In modern usage, it generally is used as a title to refer to all ancient Egyptian kings, regardless of when they ruled.