1. a nation or state that controls the foreign affairs of another state while allowing it domestic autonomy
Usage: political science; historical
2. a feudal lord to whom others owe allegiance
Usage: historical; feudalism

Examples

• The Ottoman Empire acted as suzerain over several Balkan principalities.
• Under the treaty, Britain became the suzerain power over the protectorate.
• The medieval king served as suzerain to numerous lesser nobles.
• Many African territories existed as suzerain states under European control.
• The suzerain maintained ultimate authority over foreign policy decisions.
• Feudal lords owed military service to their suzerain in times of war.