You might possibly be thinking of ceremonial:

(of a post or role) conferring or involving only nominal authority or power.

 

'the largely ceremonial position of Lord Lieutenant of Kent'

For example, Field marshal is the highest rank in the British Army and it is certainly an important title. It most certainly has been used as a real and serious rank with real and serious responsibilities. However, to quote Wikipedia,

Other ceremonial appointments were made as diplomatic gestures.

You might possibly be thinking of ceremonial:

(of a post or role) conferring or involving only nominal authority or power.

'the largely ceremonial position of Lord Lieutenant of Kent'

For example, Field marshal is the highest rank in the British Army and it is certainly an important title. It most certainly has been used as a real and serious rank with real and serious responsibilities. However, to quote Wikipedia,

Other ceremonial appointments were made as diplomatic gestures.