protectorate

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a state or territory partly controlled by (but not a possession of) a stronger state but autonomous in internal affairs; protectorates are established by treaty

From protector + -ate (forms nouns denoting rank or office, a system ruled by people of such office).

SOUTH RHODESIA AND BECHUANALAND PROTECTORATE. — History of the War in South Africa 1899-1902 v. 1 (of 4) : Compiled by Direction of His Majesty's Government, Great Britain. War Office
In 1869 it accepted the protectorate of Basutoland. — Impressions of South Africa, James Bryce, Viscount Bryce
The state is a protectorate of Great Britain. — Commercial Geography: A Book for High Schools, Commercial Courses, and Business Colleges, Jacques W. (Jacques Wardlaw) Redway

associated state

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