# suzerainty

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈs(j)uz(ə)ɹənti/ · frequency rank #85,832

## Definitions
1. A relation between states in which a subservient nation has its own government, but is unable to take international action independent of the superior state.
2. A similar relationship between other entities.
3. The status or power of a suzerain.

## Etymology
From Middle English suserente, from Old French suserenete, equivalent to suzerain + -ty.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/suzerainty