citizenship

American  

[sit-uh-zuhn-ship, -suhn-] / ˈsɪt ə zənˌʃɪp, -sən- /

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.

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citizenship British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of citizenship

First recorded in 1605–15; citizen + -ship

Example Sentences

Steven Schwinn, a law professor at the University of Illinois Chicago, said the court is likely to reject the challenge to birthright citizenship.

From Barron's

“The Fourteenth Amendment affirms the ancient and fundamental rule of citizenship by birth within the territory,” the majority said, including “all children here born of resident aliens.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The clause grants citizenship to persons who meet two conditions: birth in the U.S. and being “subject to the jurisdiction” of the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal

But she did give in and use her tribal citizenship twice: Once to help pay for grad school.

From Literature

The case revolves around the citizenship clause of the 14th Amendment.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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