nationality

[nash-uh-nal-i-tee]

noun

plural

nationalities 

1. the status of belonging to a particular nation, whether by birth or naturalization.

   the nationality of an immigrant.

2. the relationship of property, holdings, etc., to a particular nation, or to one or more of its members.

   the nationality of a ship.

3. nationalism.

4. existence as a distinct nation; national independence.

   a small colony that has just achieved nationality.

5. a nation or people.

   the nationalities of the Americas.

6. a national quality or character.

   Nationalities tend to submerge and disappear in a metropolis.

nationality

/ ˌnæʃəˈnælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or fact of being a citizen of a particular nation

2. a body of people sharing common descent, history, language, etc; a nation

3. a national group

   30 different nationalities are found in this city

4. national character or quality

5. the state or fact of being a nation; national status

Word History and Origins

Origin of nationality¹

First recorded in 1685–95; national + -ity

Example Sentences

"Your colour has become your passport or your nationality".

Read more on BBC

“Silencing individual creative artists based on their nationality does not promote better understanding or advance the cause of peace.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Family members said that, because Adler acquired nationality in France and Australia through his father, they received some information about his condition from reports compiled by representatives in those countries.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The 28-year-old switched nationality from Russia to Australia in March, having criticised her country's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in Ukraine.

Read more on BBC

Under international maritime law, naval forces can stop a merchant vessel at sea if they have reasonable suspicion that the vessel is without a nationality.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• citizenship 
• community 
• ethnic group www.thesaurus.com
• origin 
• society