sovereignty
Pronunciation: [ˈsɒv.ərənti]
Context: “political science”
(noun) the power of a state or country to govern itself without outside interference. It's like when a teacher lets you make your own rules in a classroom without anyone else telling you what to do.
Example
The country gained its sovereignty after years of struggle for independence.
Example
Without sovereignty, the nation could not make its own laws.
Example
What does it mean for a country to have sovereignty?
Context: “law”
(noun) the authority of a person or organization to make decisions and enforce laws. It's similar to how a principal in a school can make rules for their school.
Example
The court recognized the sovereignty of the local government to enforce its own laws.
Example
A lack of sovereignty means that others can control what happens in that area.
Example
How does sovereignty affect a community's ability to govern itself?
Context: “social studies”
(noun) the complete independence and self-government of a state or nation. Just like how you can make your own choices about what to do without needing anyone else's permission.
Example
The treaty established the sovereignty of the newly formed nation.
Example
The colony could not exercise its sovereignty because it was ruled by another country.
Example
Why is sovereignty important for nations?