C1nounformalpoliticslaw
US/ˈsɑːv.rən.ti/
UK/ˈsɒv.rɪn.ti/
the full right and power of a country to govern itself without control from outside
In context
Every country has the right to defend its sovereignty.
Critics say the trade deal gives away too much economic sovereignty.
The two countries have long disputed sovereignty over the small island.
Words that go with sovereignty
adjective + noun
- national sovereigntyProtecting national sovereignty is the army's main duty.
- territorial sovereigntyThe treaty confirmed the territorial sovereignty of both nations.
- economic sovereigntySome leaders see foreign debt as a threat to economic sovereignty.
noun + preposition
- sovereignty overSeveral countries claim sovereignty over parts of Antarctica.
verb + noun
- respect the sovereigntyAll member states promise to respect the sovereignty of their neighbors.
noun + noun
- state sovereigntyInternational courts sometimes clash with ideas of state sovereignty.