Sovereignty

Definition

Sovereignty refers to the full right and power of a governing body over itself, without any interference from outside sources or bodies.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɑv.rən.ti/
• Respelling: SOV-ruhn-tee (with "SOV" as in "love," "ruhn" indicating a more pronounced schwa sound, akin to the 'u' in "run" but softer, and "tee" as in "tea")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɒv.rən.ti/
• Respelling: SOV-ruhn-tee (similar to American English, with "SOV" as in "love," "ruhn" suggesting a softer version of the 'u' in "run," and "tee" as in "tea")

This adjustment aims to highlight the schwa sound in "sovereignty," particularly in the middle syllable "ruhn," making it clearer and more specific to both dialects' pronunciation.

Etymology

The word "sovereignty" has its roots in the Middle French term souveraineté, which is derived from the Old French soverain, based on the Vulgar Latin superānus (chief, principal), from Latin super (above).

Derivatives

• Sovereign
• Sovereignly

Synonyms

• Autonomy
• Independence
• Self-governance

Antonyms

• Dependence
• Subjugation
• Subordination

Usage

"Sovereignty" is a term often used in political and legal contexts to denote the supreme authority and power of a state or nation over its own territory and population. It's a critical concept in international law and relations, emphasizing the legal and political independence of states.

Related Terms

• Statehood
• Nation-state
• Territorial integrity

Detailed Definition

Noun

Supreme Authority:

• The supreme, absolute, and uncontrollable power by which an independent state is governed and from which all specific political powers are derived; the intentional independence of a state, combined with the right and power of regulating its internal affairs without foreign interference.
• Example: The treaty infringed upon the country's sovereignty.

‍Political Independence:‍

• The full right and power of a governing body over itself, without any interference from outside sources or bodies.
• Example: The regions fought for sovereignty after years of foreign rule.

Self-governance:

• The quality of having an independent authority over a geographic area, such as a territory.
• Example: The island nation has maintained its sovereignty for over a century.

Royal Rule or Authority:‍

• Royal rank, authority, or power.
• Example: During medieval times, sovereignty was vested in the monarch.