in state

Idioms  

1. With pomp and ceremony, as in The foreign leaders were dining in state at the White House. This expression, dating from the late 1600s, also appears in lie in state, said of a dead body ceremoniously exposed to public view before being interred. This latter usage, dating from about 1700, is generally confined to important public figures, as in His Majesty lay in state in the palace.

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Example Sentences

Becerra has framed his campaign around his lifetime of work in politics and his credibility working in Congress in Washington DC, and in California in state office.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

What message do you have for those who see you, your record and your work, and question your ability to succeed in state office?

From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026

While a change in state law championed the use of such programs in 2017, concerns have been raised that the programs are overcrowded and sometimes dangerous.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

In both cases, shareholders had other ways to take action: they could sue in state court in Delaware, where the companies were incorporated, or sell their shares.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

My sister forced me to wear mourning for Mr. Brown and to go to the funeral in state.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock