'principality' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'principalité', where 'prince' meant 'prince' and '-alité' denoted a state or condition.

'principalité' transformed into the Middle English word 'principalite', and eventually became the modern English word 'principality'.

Initially, it meant 'the state or office of a prince', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a territory ruled by a prince' and also an order of angels.