princely state
A 'princely state' refers to historical regions in India and Pakistan that were ruled by local monarchs under the indirect control of the British Empire.
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Definition
C1Colonial India
(historical, political)A territory in India or Pakistan governed by a native monarch under the suzerainty of the British Crown during colonial rule.
Example
- During the British Raj, there were over 500 princely states in India.
- The ruler of a princely state often held titles such as raja or maharaja.
B2General
(historical)A semi-autonomous region ruled by a local prince or king, typically under the oversight or protection of a larger empire.
Example
- The concept of princely states was common in various empires, where local rulers maintained some degree of autonomy.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "princely state":