(idiomatic) Someone who appears to be without special status, but who has great covert influence on a person in authority.

A ceremonial event in some monarchies having parliamentary systems of government, occurring at the opening of a new parliamentary session or at some other interval, in which a king, queen, or designated official reads a prepared speech to the members of parliament outlining the government's agenda.

plural of power behind the throne

plural of power behind the throne

plural of thronedom

(countable) A realm; a kingdom, principality, etc. / (uncountable) Sovereignty. / A position of dominance; ascendancy.