Synonyms

repatriation

American

[ree-pey-tree-ey-shuhn] / riˌpeɪ triˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

the act or process of returning a person or thing to the country of origin.

If conditions allow, refugees can be offered the option of voluntary repatriation rather than resettlement in countries offering asylum.
Museums are increasingly facing pressure from formerly colonized countries seeking repatriation of their priceless antiquities.

Other Word Forms

nonrepatriation noun

Etymology

Origin of repatriation

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Late Latin repatriation-, stem of repatriatio “a returning to one's fatherland,” equivalent to repatriāt-, stem of repatriāre + Latin -iō -ion ( def. ); repatriate ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Now living in Phnom Penh after the Cambodian government facilitated his repatriation from Eswatini, Rom said he was still "getting used to the freedom" but was ready to move on.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Chinese police said the repatriation took place recently but didn’t disclose when or provide details on the suspected crimes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Its repatriation from an Ohio museum involved cooperation with the US Department of Homeland Security and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office.

From Barron's • Mar. 20, 2026

Mudavadi is also seeking the repatriation of Kenyans who wish to return home.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

In the evenings she reads while Etienne makes phone calls, petitions repatriation authorities, and writes letters.

From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023