noun
- plural of suzerainty; the positions or relationships of a suzerain; supreme power or dominion over a dependent state
Usage: formal; historical
Examples
- The ancient empire maintained suzerainties over several smaller kingdoms.
- These suzerainties allowed the dominant power to control foreign policy while permitting local self-governance.
- The treaty established multiple suzerainties throughout the region.
- Historical suzerainties often involved tribute payments from vassal states.
- The collapse of these suzerainties led to the independence of many territories.
- Medieval suzerainties were complex relationships between overlords and their subjects.