Definition

The authority or control that one state has over another, especially in terms of political or military power.

Example

The small nation maintained its suzerainty while allowing the larger empire to influence its foreign affairs.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the concept of suzerainty?

I think so, but I’m not entirely sure what it means.

It's basically the power one state has over another, right?

Yeah, I get that now! It's interesting how history shaped those relationships.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Suzerainty** → It is formed from "suzerain" (from Old French *suzerain*, meaning a lord or overlord) and the suffix "-ty" (meaning the state or condition of). The word "suzerainty" refers to the state of being a suzerain or the relationship of a suzerain to a vassal.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'lord' ('suzerain') having a special 'state' or 'condition' ('-ty') of authority over others — that's what suzerainty means.

Visually Confused Words