C1adjectiveformalpoliticslaw
US/ˈsɑːv.ər.ɪn/
UK/ˈsɒv.ər.ɪn/
having full power to govern itself, with no control from another country
In context
Both countries are sovereign states with their own laws and armies.
The treaty recognizes the island as sovereign territory.
Each sovereign nation has the right to control its own borders.
Words that go with sovereign
adjective + noun
- sovereign stateKosovo declared itself a sovereign state.
- sovereign nationA sovereign nation sets its own immigration rules.
- sovereign territoryThe embassy is not sovereign territory of the host country.
- sovereign powerSovereign power rests with the people.
- sovereign rightEvery state has a sovereign right to defend itself.
adverb + adjective
- fully sovereignThe region became fully sovereign in 1960.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
soveregin stateCorrect: sovereign state