suzerain
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su·zer·ain

noun \ˈsü-zə-rən, -ˌrān; ˈsüz-rən\

Definition of SUZERAIN

1
: a superior feudal lord to whom fealty is due : overlord
2
: a dominant state controlling the foreign relations of a vassal state but allowing it sovereign authority in its internal affairs

Origin of SUZERAIN

French, from Middle French souserain, from sus up (from Latin sursum, from sub- up + versum -ward, from neuter of versus, past participle of vertere to turn) + -erain (as in soverain sovereign) — more at sub-, worth
First Known Use: 1807

Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism

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