suzerainty Definition
a situation in which one country or state has control over another, but the controlled state is allowed to govern itself.
Using suzerainty: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "suzerainty" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The treaty established suzerainty of the larger country over the smaller one.
Example
The suzerainty of the empire was challenged by rebellions and uprisings.
Example
The suzerainty agreement allowed the state to maintain its own government and laws.
suzerainty Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for suzerainty
- hegemony
- supremacy
- sovereignty
- dominion
Phrases with suzerainty
the rights of a suzerain state over a dependent state, including the right to collect tribute, regulate trade, and control foreign policy
Example
The suzerainty rights of the empire were contested by neighboring states.
a political system in which a dominant state exercises control over a weaker state while allowing it to maintain some degree of autonomy
Example
The suzerainty system was used by empires throughout history to expand their territories and influence.
a formal agreement between a suzerain state and a dependent state, outlining the terms of their relationship
Example
The suzerainty treaty between the two countries was signed after months of negotiations.
Origins of suzerainty
from French 'suzeraineté', from 'suzerain', meaning 'overlord'
Summary: suzerainty in Brief
The term 'suzerainty' [ˈsuːz(ə)rənti] refers to a situation where one country or state has control over another, but the controlled state is allowed to govern itself. It is often used to describe a political system in which a dominant state exercises control over a weaker state while allowing it to maintain some degree of autonomy. Examples include 'The treaty established suzerainty of the larger country over the smaller one.' and 'The suzerainty agreement allowed the state to maintain its own government and laws.'
