Emily Dickinson Lexicon

imperial, adj. [OFr imperial < L. imperialis.] (webplay: royal, sovereignty).

1. Having a commanding quality, demeanor, or aspect; majestic, august, lofty, exalted.
2. Befitting an emperor or supreme ruler; of special excellence; magnificent; exceedingly fine or grand.
3. Of or pertaining to a sovereign state, which in its independence and importance ranks with an empire.
4. Of the nature or rank of an emperor or supreme ruler; ruling, commanding, supreme in authority.