Definition

1. Noun:
   • A sovereign or state having some control over another state that is internally autonomous: A suzerain is a dominant political entity, often a state or ruler, that exercises a degree of authority, especially in foreign affairs, over another state or territory that manages its own internal affairs.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • In the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire was the suzerain over several Balkan principalities.
  • The treaty established the larger kingdom as the suzerain, responsible for the protectorate's defense and international relations.

Advanced Usage

• "Suzerainty" (n): The position, power, or dominion of a suzerain.
  • The smaller nation accepted the suzerainty of its powerful neighbor in exchange for protection.

Variants and Related Words

• Suzerainty (n): The right of a country to rule over another country or the period of time during which this right exists.
  • The region existed under the suzerainty of the empire for centuries.

Synonyms

• Overlord: A ruler, especially a feudal lord, with supreme power.
• Hegemon: A leading or paramount power.
• Sovereign: A supreme ruler, especially a monarch.

Related Phrases

• Suzerain state: The state that holds suzerainty.
  • Historically, China was often the suzerain state in its relations with tributary kingdoms.
• Vassal state: A state that is subordinate to a suzerain. (Note: This is a related but distinct concept, as a vassal state typically has more obligations than a state under suzerainty).
  • The agreement reduced the country from a sovereign nation to a vassal state of the suzerain.

Noun

1. a state exercising a degree of dominion over a dependent state especially in its foreign affairs