Prince-elector
The prince-electors (or simply electors) of the Holy Roman Empire (German: Kurfürst) ( listen), pl. Kurfürsten, Latin: Princeps Elector were the members of the electoral college of the Holy Roman Empire, having the function of electing the King of the Romans or, from the middle of the 16th century onwards, directly the Holy Roman Emperor
The heir-apparent to a lay prince-elector was known as an electoral prince (German: Kurprinz). The dignity of Elector carried great prestige and was second only to King or Emperor.
Read more about Prince-elector: Overview, Etymology of Kurfürst, Composition, Rights and Privileges, Reichstag, Elections, High Offices