protectorate
/prəˈtɛktərɪt/
noun
- A country or territory that is controlled and protected by a more powerful country.
- A protectorate often has its own local government but relies on the stronger nation for defense.
- In the 19th century, many African territories became European protectorates.
- The island was a British protectorate until it gained independence in 1965.
- The relationship or status of being under such protection or control.
- The nation's protectorate status ended when it signed a new agreement.
- During the protectorate, the local rulers kept some authority over daily affairs.
- The treaty established a protectorate over the coastal region.
Synonyms