sovereignty
Supreme authority or power to govern independently
Examples
In a meeting
“The treaty must respect each nation's sovereignty while enabling cooperation.”
Over coffee
“They're fighting for sovereignty so they can make their own decisions.”
Why this word
independence
Sovereignty is supreme authority and self-governance over a territory, while independence simply means freedom from external control
authority
Sovereignty is ultimate governing power that recognizes no higher authority, while authority is any right to command or decide
autonomy
Sovereignty implies complete supreme power and international recognition, while autonomy is self-governance that may exist within a larger system
Usage tip
Use in political, international, or governance contexts when discussing independence and self-determination. Powerful word for autonomy discussions.
Etymology
Old French 'souverain' (supreme) from Latin 'super' (above) — supreme power
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Related words
mandate
An official order or requirement to do something; to officially require.
rescind
To officially cancel or revoke a decision, law, or agreement
invoke
To cite or appeal to something as authority or justification
enforce
To make sure a rule or law is obeyed
empower
To give someone the authority or confidence to do something
sanction
To officially approve or authorize something