The Principate in Roman context refers to the period of Roman history that began with the establishment of the principate (meaning "princedom" or "rule of a prince") by Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE and lasted until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE. During this time, the Roman Empire was ruled by emperors who held significant power, but they often maintained the facade of republican institutions, such as the Senate.

Position of the Senate:
The Senate, which had been a prominent institution in the Roman Republic, continued to exist during the Principate. However, its role and power changed significantly under the emperors.

1. Advisory Body: The Senate served as an advisory body to the emperor. The emperor would consult the Senate on various matters, but ultimately held the final decision-making power. The Senate's advice was not binding, and the emperor had the authority to disregard it.

2. Rubber Stamp: The Senate's role was often reduced to rubber-stamping the emperor's decisions. The emperors would frequently present their proposals to the Senate for approval, but the Senate's role in shaping these decisions was limited.

3. Political Appointments: The emperor controlled the appointment of senators. The emperor could grant senatorial status to individuals or remove it from those deemed unworthy. This gave the emperor significant influence over the composition of the Senate.

4. Legislative Power: The Senate retained some legislative power, but it was largely overshadowed by the emperor. The emperor had the ability to issue decrees and laws without Senate approval, and these carried more weight than any legislation passed by the Senate.

5. Symbolic Role: The Senate served a symbolic function during the Principate. It represented the continuity of the Roman Republic and the ancient traditions of Rome. The emperors often sought to maintain the support and legitimacy of the Senate by involving them in ceremonies, celebrations, and public events.

6. Senatorial Privileges: Senators enjoyed certain privileges and honors, such as exemption from certain taxes and eligibility for public office. However, these privileges were largely dependent on the emperor's favor and could be revoked at any time.

Overall, the Senate's position during the Principate was one of diminished power and influence. While it still existed as an institution, it served primarily as a supporting body to the emperor and lacked the authority and autonomy it had enjoyed during the Roman Republic.