'Protectorate' definitions:

Definition of 'protectorate'

From: WordNet
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 [syn: protectorate, associated state]

Definition of 'Protectorate'

From: GCIDE
  • Protectorate \Pro*tect"or*ate\, n. [Cf. F. protectorat.]
  • 1. Government by a protector; -- applied especially to the government of England by Oliver Cromwell. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. The authority assumed by a superior power over an inferior or a dependent one, whereby the former protects the latter from invasion and shares in the management of its affairs. [1913 Webster]

Synonyms of 'protectorate'

From: Moby Thesaurus