citizenship

[sit-uh-zuhn-ship, -suhn-]

noun

1. the state of being vested with the rights, privileges, and duties of a citizen.

2. the character of an individual viewed as a member of society; behavior in terms of the duties, obligations, and functions of a citizen.

   an award for good citizenship.

citizenship

/ ˈsɪtɪzənˌʃɪp /

noun

1. the condition or status of a citizen, with its rights and duties

2. a person's conduct as a citizen

   an award for good citizenship

Word History and Origins

Origin of citizenship¹

First recorded in 1605–15; citizen + -ship

Example Sentences

“Under current law, hospitals that receive Medicaid are required to provide emergency care, including labor and delivery, to individuals regardless of their citizenship status,” he said.

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The inseparable brothers, who also hold German citizenship, worked together in musical production.

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A local television producer, who holds US citizenship, was arrested by federal agents during immigration enforcement operations on Chicago's North Side, her employer WGN said.

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Migration and citizenship minister Mike Tapp said the redesign marked "a new era in the history of the British passport".

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The UK government is facing calls to support Chagos Islanders who need temporary housing after a surge of them arrived in the country to claim their right to British citizenship.

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Related Words

• autonomy 
• democracy 
• emancipation 
• exemption 
• immunity 
• liberation 
• privilege 
• release 
• relief 
• self-determination 
• self-government 
• sovereignty