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sovereignty

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈsɒv.ər.ən.ti/

KK: /ˈsɑvərənti/

noun
Definition

The authority of a state to govern itself or another state without interference.


Example

The country fought for its sovereignty after years of colonial rule.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about what sovereignty really means for a country?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's all about independence and self-governance, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's fascinating how some nations fight so hard for their sovereignty.
Sloth B
Totally, it shows how important freedom is to people.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
autonomy
independence
dominion
Antonyms
subjugation
dependence
servitude
Root Explanation

Sovereignty → It is formed from 'sovereign' (from Old French *soverain*, meaning supreme or highest) and the suffix '-ty' (meaning the state or condition of). The word 'sovereignty' refers to the state of being supreme or having ultimate authority.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sovereign' meaning supreme, and '-ty' indicating a state or condition — so sovereignty is the state of being supreme.

Visually Confused Words
cosovereignty
semisovereignty
unsovereign
overdignity
cosovereign
supersovereignty
overentry
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