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sovereignty

SOV-rin-tee /ˈsɒvrɪnti/

nounC1GRESATUPSC

formalpoliticallegal

Supreme power or authority; the authority of a state to govern itself or another state.

Refers specifically to ultimate, independent political authority that is legally recognized. Unlike mere power, it has a formal, legitimate status in international law.

The story behind the word. The word traveled from Latin super (above) through Old French soverain. The spelling was later altered in English by association with reign, adding the 'g' to create 'sovereignty', as if it meant 'ruling from above'.

Word relationships

autonomy: Autonomy is the right to self-govern, whereas sovereignty is the absolute supreme power that cannot be overruled by any external force.

subjugation: Subjugation is being brought under complete control of another, the exact opposite of self-ruling sovereignty.

Commonly confused with

suzerainty: Suzerainty is a relationship where one state controls the foreign policy of a tributary state while allowing it internal autonomy, whereas sovereignty is total, independent control.

Word family

sovereign (noun): A supreme ruler, especially a monarch.

Collocations

national sovereignty
popular sovereignty
infringe on sovereignty
absolute sovereignty

Example sentences

"The sovereignty of the people is the basis of our institutions." Political Philosophy
"The treaty recognized the full sovereignty of the newly formed republic." International Relations

Memory hook

A SOVEREIGN (king) reigns SOVER-eignty over his land, standing 'super' (above) everyone else. Super-reign: standing above all.

When not to use

Do not use for personal influence or casual control, such as having control over a household chore or a television remote.

Fun facts

The spelling of sovereignty was altered in Middle English because people mistakenly thought it was directly related to the word 'reign' (from Latin regnare), when it actually came from 'super' (above).