sovereign
SOV-rin
/ˈsɒvrɪn/
Possessing supreme or ultimate power; acting as a self-governing state.
Carries a heavy weight of authority and absolute independence, often in a legal or national sense.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Old French 'soverain', which stems from the Latin 'super' (above). The 'g' was added later by mistake, influenced by the word 'reign'.
Word relationships
- supreme: Supreme implies being highest in rank, while sovereign implies independent authority.
- subordinate: Subordinate means being under the authority of another.
Commonly confused with
- autonomous: An autonomous region has some self-rule but is usually part of a larger sovereign state.
Word family
- sovereignty (noun): Supreme power or authority.
Collocations
- sovereign state
- sovereign debt
- sovereign immunity
- sovereign wealth fund
Example sentences
- "The treaty respects the sovereign rights of all participating nations." International Law
- "In a democracy, the people are the sovereign power." History
Memory hook
A sovereign reigns over everyone because they are 'so-very-in' charge. Above all.
When not to use
Rarely used for individuals unless speaking metaphorically about their 'sovereign will'.
Fun facts
- A 'sovereign' was also the name of a British gold coin, first minted in 1489.
Related words
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