SOVEREIGN
Etymology
From Middle English sovereyn, from Old French soverain (whence also modern French souverain), from Vulgar Latin* *superānus (compare Italian sovrano, Spanish soberano) from Latin *super (“above”).
Spelling influenced by folk-etymology association with reign.
Doublet of soprano, from the same Latin root via Italian.
Adjective
sovereign (comparative more sovereign, superlative most sovereign)
- Exercising power of rule.
sovereign nation
- Exceptional in quality.
Her voice was her sovereign talent.
- (now rare, pharmacology) Extremely potent or effective (of a medicine, remedy etc.). quotations ▼
- Having supreme, ultimate power. quotations ▼
Gentlemen, may I introduce Her Royal Highness, the Sovereign and Most Imperial Majesty, Empress Elizabeth of Vicron.
- Princely; royal. quotations ▼
- Predominant; greatest; utmost; paramount.