repatriation

[ree-pey-tree-ey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act or process of returning a person or thing to the country of origin: Museums are increasingly facing pressure from formerly colonized countries seeking repatriation of their priceless antiquities.

   If conditions allow, refugees can be offered the option of voluntary repatriation rather than resettlement in countries offering asylum.

   Museums are increasingly facing pressure from formerly colonized countries seeking repatriation of their priceless antiquities.

Other Word Forms

• nonrepatriation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of repatriation¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Late Latin repatriation-, stem of repatriatio “a returning to one's fatherland,” equivalent to repatriāt-, stem of repatriāre + Latin -iō -ion ( def. ); repatriate ( def. )

Example Sentences

While the Salvadoran government has not released public communications about the repatriation of children from the U.S.,

From Los Angeles Times

A UK forensic pathologist told the inquest this could not be determined and criticised the treatment of her body which involved her organs inexplicably being dissected prior to repatriation.

From BBC

Later, he worked with University of California President Michael V. Drake on a Native American remains repatriation program.

From Los Angeles Times

"The cost of repatriation, funeral arrangements, and travel is more than we can manage alone, and we are asking for support during this incredibly difficult time."

From BBC

Beijing said the repatriation was conducted in accordance with Chinese, Thai and international law.

From BBC

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