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

They’re detaining people without giving them a chance to prove their citizenship until hours later.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A recent congressional report stated that U.S. citizenship for Puerto Ricans “is not equal, permanent, irrevocable citizenship protected by the 14th Amendment … and Congress retains the right to determine the disposition of the territory.”

Read more on Salon

A Palestinian teenager who held US citizenship was shot dead by the army in April, followed by a 14-year-old in June in the town of Sinjil in June, and a 15-year-old in July.

Read more on Barron's

We found more than 50 Americans who were held after agents questioned their citizenship.

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He says that once a visa holder receives New Zealand permanent residency, it’s for life, and they can keep their U.S. citizenship.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

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