naturalization

Cultural  

1. The process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of a new country. Millions of immigrants to the United States have become American citizens. Requirements for naturalization in the United States include residency for several years, ability to communicate in English, demonstrated knowledge of American history and government, and a dedication to American values that includes no membership in subversive organizations, such as the Communist party.

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Explanation

Use the noun naturalization to describe what happens when someone becomes a brand new citizen of a country. If you're born in one country but want to become a citizen of another, you'll have to go through the process of naturalization. There are certain rules and processes involved in naturalization, depending on the country, but you usually have to live there for a certain number of years and swear an oath of loyalty. When biologists use the word naturalization, they're talking about moving plants or animals to a new place where they can thrive.

Example Sentences

She showed ProPublica and the Tribune a copy of her naturalization certificate, which she keeps with a letter from Trump congratulating her for “becoming a citizen of this magnificent land.”

From Salon • Feb. 27, 2026

Prosecutors said Puig lied on an application as part of his US naturalization process in 2019 when he denied ever gambling illegally.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

As a result, naturalization ceremonies were abruptly canceled, including for a Cuban woman in Florida.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 8, 2025

The new naturalization test, like the short-lived 2020 version, would draw from 128 possible questions and require prospective citizens to answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly in order to pass.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 18, 2025

It was a cool September day when I walked out of a Brooklyn courtroom holding my naturalization certificate.

From "Krik? Krak!" by Edwidge Danticat