sovereigns
|sov-reign|
🇺🇸
/ˈsɑːvərɪnz/
🇬🇧
/ˈsɒvərɪnz/
(sovereign)
supreme authority
Etymology
'sovereign' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'souverain' (also spelled 'soverain'), ultimately from a Vulgar Latin formation related to 'super' meaning 'above'.
'sovereign' changed from Old French 'souverain'/'soverain' into Middle English 'sovereyn' and eventually became the modern English word 'sovereign'. Its deeper origin traces to Latin elements formed around 'super' (above).
Initially it meant 'one who is above (others)' or 'supreme', and over time it evolved into the specific sense of 'supreme ruler' or 'independent authority' as used today.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a supreme ruler, especially a monarch (king or queen) who reigns over a state.
The two sovereigns met to discuss matters of state.
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Noun 2
a former British gold coin worth one pound (used historically and sometimes as bullion).
Antique shops still occasionally have gold sovereigns for sale.
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Adjective 1
possessing supreme power; having ultimate authority or independence.
The parliament declared the nation a sovereign state.
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Adjective 2
very effective or successful (often used of remedies or measures).
The new treatment proved a sovereign remedy for the illness.
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Last updated: 2025/11/17 07:12