What does the term "monarchy" mean?

The term "monarchy" specifically refers to a governmental system in which a single individual, typically a king or queen, holds the highest authority. This leadership is often inherited, meaning that the position is passed down through family lines, usually from parent to child. Monarchies can take on various forms, such as absolute monarchies, where the monarch has almost complete control and authority over the government and is not primarily bound by laws or regulations, and constitutional monarchies, where the monarch's powers are limited by a constitution or legislative body.

In contrast, other forms of government or community organization present in the answer choices do not align with the definition of monarchy. A system with elected officials refers to democracies or republics, communities governed by a group of elders typically describe tribal or council-based governance, and a system with no formal government signifies anarchy, which is entirely different from the structured hierarchy of a monarchy. This distinction highlights the unique characteristics of a monarchy as a form of governance predominantly centered around hereditary rule.