sovereignty
Pluralsovereignties
- 1A country's power to make its own laws and rule itself, free from control by other nations.
Like being old enough to make your own choices without your parents deciding for you.
The island fought for years to win its sovereignty from the larger nation.
After independence, the new country finally had full sovereignty over its own affairs.
Similarindependence, nationhood, nationality
Oppositedependence, subjugation
Note
- 2A ruler's complete power and control over a country or people.
Like a captain who has the final say over everything that happens on the ship.
The young king inherited sovereignty over three kingdoms.
For centuries, the queen's sovereignty went unquestioned by her subjects.
Similardominion, supremacy, rule, authority, power
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- 3A person's freedom to decide their own actions and thoughts.
Like being the boss of your own choices, with no one ordering you around.
She values her personal sovereignty and makes every choice for herself.
Living alone gave him a real sense of sovereignty over his daily life.
Similarautonomy, independence, freedom, liberty, self-determination
- 4
- 5The highest level of skill or excellence in doing something.
Like being so good at a game that no one can come close to beating you.
Her sovereignty in chess made her almost impossible to beat.
The team showed complete sovereignty over their rivals all season.
Similarmastery, supremacy, preeminence, superiority, dominance
Note
Practice
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Origin
It came through Old French and Anglo-Norman words like soveraineté into Middle English. These came from a Latin root meaning 'above' or 'chief'.