1. Int’l law. The relationship between a weaker nation and a stronger one when the weaker nation has transferred the management of its more important international affairs to the stronger nation.
2. Int’l law. The weaker or dependent nation within such a relationship.
3. (usu. cap.) The period in British history — from 1653 to 1659 — during which Oliver Cromwell and Richard Cromwell governed.
4. The British government in the period from 1653 to 1659.