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sovereign

SOV-rin /ˈsɒvrɪn/

nounadjectiveC1GRESATUPSC

formallegalacademic

As an adjective: possessing supreme or ultimate power. As a noun: a supreme ruler, especially a monarch.

In foreign policy, refers to a state's independent right to govern itself without external interference.

The story behind the word. From Vulgar Latin 'superanus', derived from 'super' meaning 'above'. The spelling was altered in Middle English under the false impression that it was linked to 'reign' (from Latin 'regnare'). Thus, it literally describes someone or something standing above all others.

Word relationships

autonomous: Emphasizes self-governance, but an autonomous region may still exist under a larger sovereign state.
independent: Broad term meaning not controlled by others, whereas sovereign carries formal legal recognition of ultimate authority.

subordinate: Subject to foreign authority or control.
dependent: Relying upon or controlled by a higher power.

Commonly confused with

suzerain: A suzerain has control over another state's foreign relations while letting it manage internal matters; sovereign has total authority.

Word family

sovereignty (noun): Supreme power or authority; the authority of a state to govern itself.

Collocations

sovereign nation
sovereign debt
sovereign immunity
sovereign equality

Example sentences

"Every sovereign state possesses the right to control its borders and enforce its own laws within its territory." International Law
"The British sovereign signed the bill into law during the formal ceremony." Monarchy

Memory hook

SOVEREIGN stands SUPER (above) all other powers in its REIGN. Standing supreme above all external interference.

When not to use

Do not use to describe minor officials or dependent territories with no ultimate authority.

Fun facts

A 'sovereign wealth fund' is a state-owned investment fund that manages public money for national economic stability.