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
例句
用作名词 (n.)
The eldest son succeeded to the protectorate after his father died. 他父亲死後,长子继承了摄政职位。
Aden is a former British protectorate. 亚丁以前是英国的保护领地。
经典引文
Part of the British protectorate of the Ionian Islands.