A mace-bearer is an important position, often held by an individual who carries a ceremonial staff. This staff, known as the mace, is carried before a person, such as a monarch or a high-ranking military officer, to show their authority and rank. Synonyms for a mace-bearer include a staff-bearer, a scepter-bearer, a wand-bearer, a rod-bearer, and a baton-bearer. These words all describe a person who carries a ceremonial staff, with each word emphasizing the staff's unique qualities. While each of these words has a slightly different connotation, they are all used to describe a person who is entrusted with an important ceremonial responsibility.