naturalization

Cultural  

1. The process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of a new country. Millions of immigrants to the United States have become American citizens. Requirements for naturalization in the United States include residency for several years, ability to communicate in English, demonstrated knowledge of American history and government, and a dedication to American values that includes no membership in subversive organizations, such as the Communist party.

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Explanation

Use the noun naturalization to describe what happens when someone becomes a brand new citizen of a country. If you're born in one country but want to become a citizen of another, you'll have to go through the process of naturalization. There are certain rules and processes involved in naturalization, depending on the country, but you usually have to live there for a certain number of years and swear an oath of loyalty. When biologists use the word naturalization, they're talking about moving plants or animals to a new place where they can thrive.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

naturalization

“Of course, domicile was relevant to naturalization and expatriation. But that by no means suggests it was a prerequisite to national citizenship at birth,” Roberts wrote.

From Barron's ● Jun. 30, 2026

She supports providing a path to amnesty and providing funds to boost the number of immigration judges, consular officers and naturalization officers.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 1, 2026

During the McCarthy Era, the government formalized some of the rules governing naturalization, requiring immigrants to prove their commitment to the Constitution and mandating no memberships of “subversive” organizations within the previous five years.

From Salon ● Apr. 26, 2026

First, people registering to vote would be asked to show proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a passport, birth certificate or naturalization document.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 17, 2026

It was a cool September day when I walked out of a Brooklyn courtroom holding my naturalization certificate.

From "Krik? Krak!" by Edwidge Danticat