A vassal state is a country that is ruled by another country or a more powerful government, often referred to as a suzerain. This type of relationship is often marked by the vassal state paying tribute or taxes to the suzerain. Some synonyms for vassal state include protectorate, client state, dependency, and satellite state. A protectorate is a similar type of relationship, where a powerful state provides protection to a weaker one in exchange for certain benefits. A client state is a state that is controlled or influenced by another state or power. A dependency is a country that relies on another for economic or political support or control. Finally, a satellite state is one that is politically dominated by another state, usually ideologically.