suzerain Definition
a sovereign or state having some control over another state that is internally autonomous.
Using suzerain: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "suzerain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The suzerain-vassal relationship was common in medieval Europe.
Example
China was a suzerain state of Korea during the Joseon dynasty.
Example
The suzerain granted the vassal certain rights and privileges in exchange for loyalty and tribute.
suzerain Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with suzerain
a political arrangement in which a powerful state controls the foreign policy and some aspects of the internal affairs of a weaker state
Example
The suzerainty system was used by European powers to control their colonies in Africa and Asia.
Example
The suzerain power was limited by the autonomy of the vassal state.
a treaty between a suzerain and a vassal state that defines the terms of their relationship
Example
The suzerain treaty granted the vassal state certain rights and obligations.
Origins of suzerain
from Old French 'susserain', from Latin 'super-' meaning 'above' and 'regnum' meaning 'kingdom'
Summary: suzerain in Brief
The term 'suzerain' [soo-zuh-reyn, -er-in] refers to a sovereign or state that has some control over another state that is internally autonomous. It is a political arrangement where the suzerain grants certain rights and privileges to the vassal in exchange for loyalty and tribute. The suzerain-vassal relationship was common in medieval Europe and China was a suzerain state of Korea during the Joseon dynasty.
