sovereign
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈsɒv.ər.ɪn/
KK: /ˈsɑvərɪn/
adjective
Definition
Having the highest power or authority; independent and self-governing.
Example
The country became a sovereign nation after gaining independence.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new documentary on sovereign states?
Yeah, I watched it last night! It was really interesting.
I loved how they explained the concept of sovereign power.
Me too! It made me think about how important independence is.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
supreme
paramount
independent
Antonyms
subordinate
dependent
inferior
noun
Definition
A ruler or monarch who has the highest authority in a country.
Example
The sovereign of the kingdom made an important announcement.
Conversation
Did you know that the term sovereign originally referred to a type of gold coin?
Really? I had no idea it had a monetary meaning.
Yeah, and it also means a ruler or monarch, like a king or queen.
Root Explanation
Sovereign → It is derived from the Old French 'souverain' (meaning supreme or highest) and the Latin 'superanus' (meaning above or over). The word 'sovereign' refers to someone who holds supreme power or authority.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'above' ('superanus') all others in power — that's why a sovereign is a supreme ruler.
Visually Confused Words
unsovereign
cosovereign
subsovereign
nonsovereign
demisovereign
cosovereignty