suzerain; overlord
Historical and political term for a dominant state or ruler that exercises control over a vassal or tributary state. Often used in discussions of feudal or imperial relationships.
In medieval Europe, the relationship between suzerain and vassal was complex.
This region was under the suzerainty of the neighboring country for many years.
suzerain state
suzerainty
Composed of 宗 (sect, origin, chief) and 主 (master, lord). The combination conveys the idea of a chief lord or overlord. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term is used in East Asian historical and political contexts.