Meaning of the word suzerain in English

What does suzerain mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

suzerain

US /ˈsuː.zɚ.ɪn/
UK /ˈsuː.zər.eɪn/

Noun

a sovereign or state having some control over another state that is internally autonomous

Example:
Historically, the larger empire acted as a suzerain over several smaller kingdoms.
The treaty established the emperor as the suzerain, granting him ultimate authority.

Adjective

having or exercising suzerainty

Example:
The empire maintained its suzerain power over the conquered territories.
The smaller state was under the suzerain authority of its powerful neighbor.