SOVEREIGN STATE Meaning and
Definition
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A sovereign state refers to a political entity that has ultimate and independent authority over a specific territory, allowing it to govern itself without interference from external powers. Also known as a nation-state or country, a sovereign state possesses certain characteristics that differentiate it from other sub-national or supranational entities.
Firstly, it possesses sovereignty, which means it has the power and right to exercise control over its internal affairs, make decisions, and enforce laws. This includes maintaining its territorial integrity, conducting foreign relations, and having exclusive control over its political, economic, and judicial systems. Sovereign states are not subordinate to any higher authority, although they may choose to enter into alliances, international organizations, or partnerships for mutual benefit.
Secondly, a sovereign state must have a defined territory that it governs. This territory can include land, water, and airspace within recognized borders. It is important to note that sovereignty is usually recognized by other states, which contributes to the state's internal and external legitimacy.
Lastly, a sovereign state is typically comprised of a population that shares common identity, culture, language, and history. However, the presence of a homogeneous population is not an essential requirement, as states can be diverse and inclusive, encompassing multiple ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups.
In summary, a sovereign state refers to a self-governing political entity with independent authority over a defined territory, marked by sovereignty, a recognized territory, and a shared population. It is the fundamental building block of the international system and provides the basis for interactions and relations between nations.
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A country or state which administers its own government, and which is not subject to or controlled by another power.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SOVEREIGN STATE
- aovereign state
- zovereign state
- xovereign state
- dovereign state
- eovereign state
- wovereign state
- sivereign state
- skvereign state
- slvereign state
- spvereign state
- s0vereign state
- s9vereign state
- socereign state
- sobereign state
- sogereign state
- sofereign state
- sovwreign state
- sovsreign state
- sovdreign state
- sovrreign state
Etymology of SOVEREIGN STATE
The word "sovereign" comes from the Old French word "soverain", which ultimately derives from the Latin word "superanus", meaning "above". It is related to the Latin word "super", meaning "over" or "above".
The word "state" originates from the Latin word "status", which referred to a condition or position. In medieval Latin, "status" took on the sense of a "political organization" or a "body politic". Over time, this term evolved into "state" in various European languages, including English.
The phrase "sovereign state" combines these two words to describe an independent political entity with absolute power and authority within its own territory. This term became commonly used in political theory from the 16th century onwards to describe modern nation-states.
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