Sovereignty
/ˈsɒv.ər.ɪn.ti/noun
Supreme power or authority over a territory or domain.
Did you know?The concept of sovereignty was often linked to divine right, where rulers were seen as chosen by the gods, granting them almost magical authority over the land and its people.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*reg-
“to rule, to lead, to direct.”
Latin
Latin
superanus
“to be above, superior, higher.”
Old French
Old French
soverein
“supreme, chief, or ruler.”
Middle English
Middle English
soveraineté
“the state of being supreme or in authority.”
Modern English
English
sovereignty
“the full right and power of a governing body over itself.”
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