# sovereign

/ˈsɑvɹən/ (US) · /sˈɒvəɹˌɪn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sovereign
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a ruler

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

a king, queen, or other person who has the highest power in a country.

For teachers: a supreme ruler, especially a monarch. The term is often used in formal or legal contexts to refer to the head of state.

- The sovereign was greeted by thousands of people during the parade.
- The constitutional sovereign remains the formal head of state, though executive power is exercised by the elected parliament.

### 2. a gold coin

noun · CEFR C1 · British English

a British gold coin that was worth one pound in the past.

For teachers: a British gold coin with a nominal value of one pound sterling, now primarily used as a bullion coin.

- He found an old gold sovereign in his grandfather's collection.
- Investors often purchase gold sovereigns as a hedge against inflation due to their high purity and historical value.

### 3. independent

adjective · CEFR B2 · Academic

describes a country that is independent and has the power to govern itself.

For teachers: possessing supreme or ultimate power; in political science, referring to a state that is independent of outside control.

- The small island became a sovereign nation after many years of colonial rule.
- The treaty was designed to protect the sovereign rights of each member state while encouraging economic cooperation across the region.

### 4. excellent or absolute

adjective · CEFR C2 · Literary · Formal

having total power, or being the best example of something.

For teachers: supreme or paramount in character; can also refer to a remedy that is exceptionally effective.

- The judge had sovereign authority over the courtroom.
- The philosopher argued that the individual possesses sovereign control over their own mind and body.

## Examples

- The sovereign addressed the nation during the crisis.
- The treaty was signed by the sovereign of each nation to ensure lasting peace and mutual recognition of borders.
- The transition from absolute monarchy to a system where the people are sovereign represents a fundamental shift in the history of political philosophy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.